SP's Aviation August 2009

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AUGUST • 2009

Business Aviation

RNI NUMBER: DELENG/2008/24199

Happening Indo-French Ties: Forward March

Indo-US Relations: Hillary Clinton’s Visit

MMRCA Progress Report

Single Engine vs Twin Engine

F/A-18: Evolution Explained

Revamp of IAF Jaguar

Pure performance Absolute precision

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TABLE of CONTENTS

AN SP GUIDE PUBLICATION

News Flies. We Gather Intelligence. Every Month. From India.

ISSUE 7 • 2009

Punj Lloyd Group’s Gulfstream IV is one of the business jets in India

MILITARY

31 38

Upgrade Jaguar Revamp Industry F/A-18 Evolution Explained Neighbour Fiery Dragon, Somnolent Elephant

TAKE ONE

36

TAKE TWO

42

2

Indo-French Ties Forward March

SP’S AVIATION

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Issue 7 • 2009

48

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Indo-US Relations: Hillary Clinton’s Visit

MMRCA Progress Report

Single Engine vs Twin Engine

F/A-18: Evolution Explained

Revamp of IAF Jaguar

SP's Avn 07 of 09 Cover_final.indd 1

5 6 9 11

8/7/09 12:42:50 PM

Cover Photo: Cessna is upbeat about market prospects for its Citations in India. (Seen here is the Citation X.) Photo Credit: Cessna

- Louis Blériot

REGULAR DEPARTMENTS

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Indo-French Ties: Forward March

Commercial Aviation Coming of Age

HALL OF FAME

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Embraer Perspective In India, Success Depends On Where You Start

46

Business Aviation

Twin Engine ...But What About Stealth & Survivability?

DIPLOMACY

44

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CIVIL

SERIES

•

Single Engine Cost Benefits, Reliability, Thrust...

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UNTAPPED POTENTIAL A variety of factors—ranging from infrastructural bottlenecks to an inflexible bureaucracy—has long stymied the growth of Indian business aviation. ����������������������������������

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MMRCA Coming Soon: Field Trials

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Cover Story

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A Word from Editor NewsWithViews - Figure It Out - Foreign Tie-Up For Basic Trainer InFocus Some More Knots Forum Obstacle Race NewsDigest LastWord Strike That Out

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A Word from Editor

A strike that failed to deliver the desired blow highlighted the desperation stalking India’s private airlines even as elsewhere, hands were clasped in diplomacy and camaraderie.

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esperate times call for large doses of diplomacy—and not necessarily a desperate urge to strike out, as private airlines in India learnt to their chagrin. The caucus of Kingfisher, Jet Airways, Indigo, SpiceJet and GoAir was forced on the backfoot in the face of the government refusing to cave in to its threat to call off operations for a day on August 18. Furious Civil Aviation Minister Praful Patel warned of legal action if the Federation of Indian Airlines went ahead with the strike, which had to eventually be called off after members of the consortium developed cold feet in the face of such stiff opposition from the government and the public.

Diplomacy was also the clinching pin for issues ranging from defence to environment as India engaged in a hectic round of parleys with the US and France. So while US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton created ripples in Delhi, Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh, as Chief Guest at the July 14 French National Day celebrations, was seen in a warm cinch with President Nicolas Sarkozy. “The Indo-US civil nuclear deal will not be held ‘hostage’ to India signing the CTBT,” was the assurance from Clinton, whose whirlwind tour of Delhi and Mumbai left in its wake a trail of confusion and quite a few unanswered questions. In Paris, the Prime Minister enthused: “India and France enjoy a close and wide ranging strategic partnership. Our relations with France encompass a large number of areas and have served our national interests well.”

Back home, key issues of national interests apart, the aviation industry continues to grapple with its demons. To add a dash of cheer, the Cover Story pulls the proverbial rabbit from the hat to trace the advantages India’s business aviation industry stands to accrue—provided, of course, it addresses the twin obstacles of infrastructural bottlenecks and an inflexible bureaucracy. Inadequate infrastructure is, undoubtedly, the biggest bugbear. What’s paralysing is the bureaucratic mindset that’s preoccupied with scheduled services even as it views big business with suspicion. Yet, despite the prevailing economic gloom, experts are unanimous that India’s long-term growth story is intact. Once the current slowdown passes the rebound is expected to be vigorous.

Vigour would also be the key ingredient in propelling India’s ‘Mother of all defence deals’, the quest to acquire 126 Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft for the Indian Air Force (IAF). Labouring through the labyrinthine Defence Procurement Process, the exercise has completed merely three stages ever since its inception in 2001. Next is the ‘Field Trials’, scheduled for completion by March-April 2010 but likely to stretch till at least the latter half of the year. The ponderous gait is in urgent need of some momentum if the deal is to be finalised expeditiously—given the growing urgency to bridge the asymmetry between India’s military prowess visà-vis its powerful neighbour, China.

While on the topic of military acquisitions and upgrades, the spotlight is turned on the IAF’s more than three-decade-old romance with its Jaguar fleet which it intends to spruce up with fresh purchases and facelifts. Pertinently, this issue also strikes a fine balance between single-engine and twin-engine aircraft.

Which camp are you in?

Jayant Baranwal

Publisher & Editor-in-Chief Issue 7 • 2009

SP’S AVIATION

5

NewsWithViews

FIGURE IT OUT

Adhering to its commitment in the pre-election interim budget, the UPA government at the Centre allocated Rs 1,41,703 crore (approximately $28 billion) for defence from India’s Budget 2009-10 presented by the Finance Minister, Pranab Mukherjee, on July 6. The defence budget records an increase of 34 per cent over 2008-09 allocations and includes Rs 54,824 crore ($11 billion) for capital expenditure as against Rs 41,000 crore in the revised estimates for 2008-09. The Indian Air Force’s (IAF) share of the capital outlay has been pegged at Rs 19,959.22 crore. The question is will it suffice?

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n the face of it, while the defence budget may have been increased by a hefty 34.19 per cent over the previous year’s revised figures, the hike in allocation works out to 23.65 per cent. The increase can be largely attributed to the sharp rise in revenue expenditure which, in turn, is mainly to cater to the substantial increase in pay and allowances flowing from the implementation of Sixth Pay Commission. In percentage figures, the revenue expenditure’s share in the defence budget has risen to 61.31 compare to 54.54 in the previous year, which reflects poorly on capital allocations required for the modernisation of the armed forces. While the manpower intensive Indian Army gets the lion’s share in the revenue budget, it is the equipment intensive IAF which has bagged the biggest share for capital acquisitions. But is it enough?

Evidently, in dollar terms, the IAF will have less than $3.6 billion (Rs 18,811.64 crore) to pay for its capital acquisition schemes this year—far short of what will be required to keep its modernisation/upgrade programmes on track.

Major ongoing schemes include the Hawk Advance Jet Trainer, AWACS with Israeli Phalcon systems, Su-30MKI, Aerostat, Spyder and the indigenous Akash Surface-to-Air Missile systems, different types of ground-based air defence and air traffic control radars, and helicopter acquisition programmes, such as the indigenous Dhruv ALH and Mi-17. In addition, there are a large number of upgrade programmes— such as the MiG-29, An32 and Mirage-2000—for which contracts have either already been signed or are in the pipeline. The IAF would also have to park money with HAL for its Light Combat Aircraft limited production initial order. More than anything else it needs to start catering for the upcoming $10-15 billion (Rs 48,280-72,420 crore) 126 Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft programme.

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SP’S AVIATION

Issue 7 • 2009

INDIA’S DEFENCE BUDGET 2009-10 (In Rs crore) ARMY

NAVY

AIR FORCE

Revenue

58,648.00

8,322.73

14,318.00

Capital

17,767.95

11,873.73

19,959.22

IAF BUDGET 2009-10 Capital Outlay

Major Head

Budget (In Rs cr) 42.58 1,102.00 11,838.55

Land Construction Aircraft, AeroEngines Heavy & Medium 84.56 Vehicles Other Equipment 6,891.53 Total 19,959.22

Estimations suggest the IAF would consistently need at least $5-6 billion (Rs 24,14028,968 crore) annually for the next 10 years to build its operational and infrastructural capabilities to the minimum desired standards. Simply put, the IAF should get a minimum of Rs 25,000 crore or more as capital outlay per annum to stay on track with its capability enhancement programmes.

Yet another frequently debated question is whether the defence budget should get linked to India’s GDP as a defined percentage. This year’s budget, impressive as it may appear on paper, still works out to a mere 2.35 per cent of the GDP—a far cry from the 3 per cent that most defence analysts in the country feel to be not only desirable, but also affordable. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has assured: “Where defence of the country is concerned, money would not be a consideration.” We hope so. SP — Air Marshal (Retd) V.K. Bhatia www.spsaviation.net

The technology of yesterday’s dogfights will not win in the modern battlespace. The Super Hornet gives India the advanced capabilities required to prevail for decades to come. It’s the only aircraft available today with a proven, fully integrated suite of networked radar, sensors, avionics and weapons systems — enabling the Super Hornet to engage potential threats beyond visual range like nothing else. To engage, fight and win.

NewsWithViews

FOREIGN TIE-UP FOR BASIC TRAINER

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has decided to rope in an international partner for the design and development of the much needed ab initio turbo trainer for the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Indian Navy. HAL has issued a Request for Information (RFI) to a number of companies, including Embraer (for the Tucano), Pilatus (PC-21), Raytheon (T-6 Texan), Finmeccanica (M-311), Grob Aircraft Company (G-120TP) and Korea Aerospace Industries (KT-1). The RFI is for 200 aircraft, with HAL being the sole worldwide manufacturer. The proposed trainer, Hindustan Turbo Trainer-40 (HTT-40), will replace the HAL-designed Hindustan Piston Trainer-32 (HPT-32). Deployed by the IAF and the navy since 1984, the HPT-32’s reliability has always been in question.

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ILLUSTRATION: MAMTA

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ndigenous development of the first basic trainer aircraft for the IAF, the piston engine Hindustan Trainer 2 (HT-2), was successfully undertaken by the HAL in the 1950s. Of simple design, the tandem-seat HT-2 had a profile somewhat similar to the British trainer aircraft Bulldog and served the IAF for over four decades. The HT-2 proved to be a sturdy aircraft but demanded high levels of skill on the part of the trainee pilot. Only the best were able to cope.

In 1984, the HT-2 was replaced by the HPT-32.

Another product of indigenous effort, the HPT-32 was similar in appearance to the highly successful Italian SIAI Marchetti SF 260M. Although endowed with easy handling qualities, the HPT-32 had a troublesome mismatch between the airframe and the engine in respect of the fuel system, often leading to engine stoppage in flight.

Along with the HPT-32, HAL made a failed attempt at developing indigenously a basic turboprop trainer, the Hindustan Turbo Trainer 34 (HTT-34). As the design fell well short of the requirements of the IAF, the project was eventually shelved. Compared to the HPT-32 currently in use, the qualitative requirements spelt out for the new basic trainer are reportedly far more elaborate. The new trainer is required to have a larger operating envelope, ejection seats, pressurisation, air-conditioning, glass cockpit, Head Up Display and state-ofthe-art navigational systems. Of the six recipients of the RFI, four—Embraer’s 312 Tucano, Pilatus’ PC-21, Raytheon’s T-6 Texan and the Korea Aerospace Industries’ KT-1—seem to be worthwhile products.

While HAL undoubtedly has the capability to produce a basic turboprop trainer indigenously measuring up to the aspirations of the IAF, it may take years to fructify. Critical 8

SP’S AVIATION

Issue 7 • 2009

as the requirement is and considering that the new aircraft needs to be inducted by 2013-14, the fundamental issue is time frame—and HAL’s track record in this regard does not inspire confidence. Admittedly, the HJT-16 (Kiran) project has been successful. However, its replacement, the HJT-36, designated as the Intermediate Jet Trainer, has not only been delayed considerably, the time frame of delivery to the user continues to remain uncertain, with serious ramifications for Stage II training. In this context, collaboration with a foreign manufacturer with proven design is undoubtedly an attractive option.

HAL’s decision reflects a significant departure from routine. This is perhaps the first time in the history of the IAF that its comrade-in-arms is seeking collaboration with a foreign company to produce an aircraft for military use. In the normal course, the IAF initiates dialogue with aerospace majors capable of meeting with the stipulated qualitative requirements (QRs) and have the potential for collaboration. HAL is then called upon to join hands with the selected manufacturer for co-development and production or direct production under licence. One instance is induction of the British Aerospace Hawk.

In search of a new basic trainer, the IAF has rather wisely handed over the QRs to HAL. Drawing from experience, it is likely that the IAF would have laid down an inflexible time frame and schedule for delivery of the aircraft with severe penalty and other consequences for non-compliance. In the process, the IAF has conveniently passed on the debilitating burden of the DPP 2008 to HAL. Simply put, the IAF will procure the new product— Hindustan Turbo Trainer 40—from HAL without having to cope with the hassles of procurement from a foreign source. SP — Air Marshal (Retd) B.K. Pandey www.spsaviation.net

InFocus

INDO-US TIES

Some

More

Knots

US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s recent visit to India from July 17 to 20 has been meaningful in many ways, translating into significant expansion of bilateral and multilateral relationship between the two nations

S

livers of cheer are breaking through the decades-old sulk.

Against the backdrop of the emerging unipolar world scenario, India is forced to re-examine the by now common refrain that despite Washington’s bonhomie with Delhi, Islamabad appears to be its favoured child. The grouse, though rarely articulated above a whisper, seems to be losing its edge somewhat with the US increasingly reinforcing its estimation of India’s importance, both strategically and economically. Republicans or Democrats, the definitive transformation in Washington’s views surfaced during Bill

India and the US appear to finally have discarded the pall of mistrust to reach out for a warm clasp

more missions

F125IN: Unprecedented capability to make Jaguar roar.

The Honeywell F125IN engine is uniquely qualified to dramatically transform Jaguar’s strike capabilities and enhance mission performance.

- Shorter high — hot takeoffs - Superior thrust retention - Greater mission range - Faster and higher climbs

PHOTOGRAPH: WWW.PIB.NIC.IN

F125IN engine from Honeywell. The future is now.

Clinton’s regime, was echoed by George W. Bush and now appears to be pursued by President Barack Obama. Cutting across party lines and united by the common goals of eradicating terrorism and developing defence, space and nuclear technology, the two countries appear to finally have discarded the pall of mistrust to reach out for a warm clasp.

      

Issue 7 • 2009

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InFocus

INDO-US TIES Consequently, US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s recent inspection will not be at the site but at a place and time to visit to India from July 17 to 20 has been meaningful in many be decided by India. The US has such agreements with 83 ways, translating into significant expansion of bilateral and countries, and it will invariably be welcomed by Lockheed multilateral relationship between the two nations. Transiting Martin Corp. and Boeing Co., both competing with Russian, from the rank of an observer as the First Lady accompanying French and Swedish companies for a massive $12 billion her husband, to visiting India as a world decision-maker, Sen- (Rs 57,510 crore) tender to supply 126 Medium Multi-Role ator Clinton’s role of a goodwill ambassador has been whole- Combat Aircraft to the Indian Air Force. heartedly embraced by India. Her trademark steely grit and Intriguingly, despite the US orchestrated G8 ban on Endetermination while discussing issues of concern common richment of Uranium & Reprocessing (ENR) technology for to the two nations have made Delhi and Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty Mumbai sit up and listen, affording both non-signatory countries, India is India Inc and South Block with a lot of food bending over backwards to offer for thought.

American companies two sites for loAcknowledging the great potential cating nuclear plants—a concession in Indo-US science and technology colmade publicly during the Clinton laboration, the two sides have concluded visit. Presumably, the 10,000 MW rea Science and Technology Endowment actor sales India has promised is still Agreement, and inked a Technology on course, despite the ENR ban.

Safeguards Agreement that will permit External Affairs Minister S.M. the launch of civil or non-commercial Krishna and Secretary Clinton also satellites containing US components on agreed to annually chair an “India-US Indian space launch vehicles. The other Strategic Dialogue” alternately in the highlight is the signing of an agreement respective capital cities. The proposed to facilitate the launch of US satellites on parley would focus on a wide range Indian launch vehicles. Both sides welof bilateral, global, and regional issues AT A TIME WHEN THE comed India’s participation in the Fuof shared interest and common conture Gen Project for the construction of cern, programmes currently under HEADLINES ARE FILLED the first commercial scale fully integrated implementation and bolster mutually WITH CHALLENGES, THE carbon capture and sequestration projbeneficial initiatives that complement RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ect and India’s participation in the InteIndian and US development, secugrated Ocean Development Project—an rity and economic interests. Clinton THE UNITED STATES AND international endeavour for enhancing invited Krishna for the first round of INDIA IS A GOOD NEWS the understanding of Earth and ocean the strategic dialogue in Washington STORY AND I BELIEVE, dynamics and addressing the challenges next year. “At a time when the headof climate change. lines are filled with challenges, the re(EXTERNAL AFFAIRS) Significantly, India, along with China lationship between the United States MINISTER (S.M. KRISHNA), and other developing nations, has been and India is a good news story and THAT IT’S GOING TO GET resisting any cap on greenhouse gas I believe, (External Affairs) Minister emissions that can be detrimental to its (S.M. Krishna), that it’s going to get EVEN BETTER. economic growth. The US has also opeven better,” she enthused. The duo —HILLARY CLINTON, posed the India-Pakistan-Iran gas pipealso reaffirmed their commitment to US SECRETARY OF STATE, line and views with suspicion Delhi’s ties early adoption of a UN Comprehenwith Tehran. Clinton stressed that the US sive Convention against International IN DELHI is keen to know India’s perspective on Terrorism which would strengthen Iran’s nuclear weapons programme and the framework for global cooperation. sought Delhi’s advice. “In the discussions Clinton further asserted that multitoday and to come in future, we will be lateral organisations and groupings exploring with India their approach and should reflect the world of the 21st perspectives towards Iran and any advice that they can century in order to maintain long-term credibility, relevance contribute to an international consensus about the dangers and effectiveness, even as both expressed interest in exchangposed to global stability if Iran were to become a nuclear ing views on new configurations of the UN Security Council, weapons power,” Clinton said. the G-8, and the G-20.

Delhi agreed to identify two sites where US companies Earlier, extending Obama’s invite to Prime Minister Dr could set up nuclear power plants. This will, however, have Manmohan Singh to visit Washington on November 24 on to wait for India to pass the required liability legislation as what will be the first state visit to confabulate with the new required under the US law. What has led to a controver- administration, one safe speculation could be that Clinton sy is the conclusion of the End Use Monitoring Agreement discussed the contentious issue of Kashmir. A thorn in Indiaunder which the US will be allowed to inspect individual Pakistan relations, Kashmir, if discussed, was carefully kept items obtained from the US for defence purposes, to ensure from the media in an obvious effort to steer clear of controthat these were being used for the purpose originally in- versy—and keep the frowns at bay. For now. SP tended for. Delhi, however, has been maintaining that the —By Sangeeta Saxena 10

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Issue 7 • 2009

www.spsaviation.net

Forum

INDO-US TIES

Obstacle Race

Clearly, the Obama administration wants to carry forward the momentum nurtured during the George W. Bush years, especially in nuclear and defence cooperation—but the path is strewn with hurdles

PHOTOGRAPHS: WWW.PIB.NIC.IN, WWW.USCHAMBER.COM AND SP GUIDE PUBNS

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ooperation and contradictions on a wide range of issues left a mixed bag of succour and scepticism in the wake of US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s fourday whirlwind visit to India beginning July 17. On the whole, the message Clinton sought to deliver was clear: the Obama administration wants to carry forward the momentum in bilateral relations gathered and nurtured during the George W. Bush years, especially pertaining to nuclear and defence cooperation. She also indicated the administration’s intention of supporting India “as it readies to play a bigger role in regional and global affairs”.

On the face of it, the real takeaways of Clinton’s visit ostensibly were three major agreements. The first pertains to an ‘end-use monitoring’ legal requirement that allows the US to track arms supplied to another country to ensure these are not sold, or otherwise passed on, to third parties and are being used as per the agreed terms. The second traces out a technical safeguards agreement that will allow India to launch non-commercial satellites containing US components, while a third agreement envisages establishment of a science and technology endowment fund to boost cooperation in these fields.

The joint statement issued by India’s External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna and the visiting US Secretary of State made special mention of the two most important aspects in the field of nuclear and defence cooperation: Civil Nuclear Cooperation—Building on the success of the India-US Civil Nuclear Initiative, India and the United States will begin consultations on reprocessing arrangements and procedures, as pro-



more power

F125IN: Technical superiority to make Jaguar roar.

The right combination of innovation, technology and performance make the Honeywell F125IN engine the right fit and ideal choice for IAF Jaguars.

- Drop-fit replacement - 555 pounds lighter than current configuration - 4,400 pounds greater high / hot takeoff payload - Decreased pilot workload, increased safety - Proven performance: over 500,000 hours of operation on the F124 – F125 engine series F125IN engine from Honeywell. The future is now.

      

Issue 7 • 2009

SP’S AVIATION

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Forum

INDO-US TIES

READ THE PICTURE: vided in Article 6 (iii) of the 123 PRIME MINISTER Agreement for Peaceful Nuclear MANMOHAN SINGH GREETS Cooperation between India and US SECRETARY OF STATE HILLARY CLINTON IN DELHI the United States.

Defence Cooperation—Noting the enhanced cooperation in defence under the Defence Cooperation Framework Agreement of 2005, both sides reiterated the commitment of their respective Governments to pursue mutually beneficial cooperation in the field of defence—with India’s External Affairs Minister (S.M.) Krishna announcing that both sides had reached agreement on ‘End Use Monitoring’ for US defence articles.

Infused with optimism, ambiguities in the statement nevertheless triggered a volley of questions, with unconvinced political leaders in India raising a dust inside and outside the Parliament. Discontentment was directed largely at the End Use Monitoring Agreement (EUMA), with the Opposition trashing it as ‘sell-out’ of the country’s sovereignty. However, both the landmark pacts warrant close scrutiny.

Under the Defence Cooperation Framework Agreement, India had signed several deals for acquisition of defence equipment from the US, notable among these being the threeaircraft BBJ deal for the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) VIP Communication Squadron and six Hercules C-130Js and eight Poseidon P-8I aircraft for the IAF and Indian Navy, respectively.

For all these deals, separate agreements were signed to fulfill Washington’s EUM requirements. It may be recalled that in the case of the BBJs, there was a delay in the delivery of the aircraft on the issue of allowing US inspectors to physically check the aircraft meant for the use of the country’s highest ranking VIPs. Finally, the thorny issue was resolved by allowing the concerned US manufacturer Northrop Grumman of the sensitive onboard equipment to directly deal with the IAF. The novel ‘company-to-company agreement did away with the need for physical verification. It was decided that the US

12

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Issue 7 • 2009

firm would take the responsibility for ‘correct usage’ of the Self-Protection Suit systems, which, in turn, would rely on written assurances tendered by the IAF. In a bid to do away with the cumbersome case-by-case agreements for end use monitoring, it was decided to prepare a standard text which would cover all of India’s defence deals with the US. Although the exact wording of the standard text has not been made public, concerned defence officials claim while India has agreed to US inspections of military equipment bought from America, the dates and venues for joint security verifications would only be decided through ‘joint consultations’. India has managed to keep ‘physical on-site’ inspections—a touchy subject—out of the draft of the ‘standard text’.

In other words, US inspectors will not have carte blanche access to India’s military installations/bases. In actual effect, there is a great possibility that the EUM could be relegated to merely a ‘paper exercise’, without the intrusive physical verification, so long as relations between the two countries remain close and cosy. Consequently, it would be wise for India to employ foresight and prepare a contingency WE APPLAUD THE SIGNING plan to cater to a OF THE EUMA. THIS SIGNALS situation wherein, due to some politiAN ERA OF INCREASED cal or strategic difDEFENCE COOPERATION ferences, relations BETWEEN THE UNITED STATES between the two countries acquire a AND INDIA AND WE LOOK degree of chill.

FORWARD TO SUPPORTING US defence comTHE REQUIREMENTS OF THE panies have, however, welcomed the anINDIAN ARMED SERVICES IN nouncement on the PARTNERSHIP WITH INDIAN EUMA as they feel INDUSTRY. it would boost sales.

“The agreement —RICHARD KIRKLAND, will make it easier PRESIDENT-SOUTH ASIA, to share important LOCKHEED MARTIN GLOBAL US defence technology with India and we look forward to working within the framework of this agreement to support India in modernising its defence forces,” Boeing responded in a statement. “We applaud the signing of the EUMA. This signals an era of increased defence cooperation between the United States and India and we look forward to supporting the requirements of the Indian armed services in partnership with Indian industry,” said Richard Kirkland, South Asia Chief for Lockheed Martin Global. Ron Somers, President of US-India Business Council (USIBC) went further, www.spsaviation.net

Forum

INDO-US TIES “Agreement on EUM, besides opening the door to increased defence trade and security cooperation, indicates a high level of trust and cooperation between the US and India.” The USIBC has urged the Indian government to allow Foreign Direct Investment up to 49 per cent in the Indian defence sector.

The second most contentious issue pertains to the Indo-US civilian nuclear deal. While the issue of nuclear tests and consequences thereof remains dormant (or non-issue) due to India’s self-imposed moratorium on such experiments, has the issue of reprocessing of spent fuel

implemented between India and the In- it directly affects India alone. Hillary ternational Atomic Energy Agency, the Clinton’s statements on this issue have benchmarks were to be set by Washing- been somewhat vague and non-committon and Delhi, with full support of the for- tal. Despite the ban, India is going ahead mer. Has that situation changed now? with its promise to the US government There were no preconditions to of supporting up to 10,000 MW reacsigning of the Nuclear Non-Prolifera- tor sales by offering the US companies tion Treaty (NPT) by India with regard two sites in southern India for locating to its right to reprocess spent fuel and by power plants. It is hoped that this direct inference access to Enrichment of Ura- gift made publicly during Clinton’s visit nium & Reprocessing (ENR) technolo- will act as a catalyst for the US to push gies in the Indo-US agreement. The US- India’s case for access to ENR technolochaired G8 general ban on transfer of gies—so crucial for its civilian nuclear ENR technologies to NPT non-signatory programme and energy security. SP countries is quite baffling as, at present, —By Air Marshal (Retd) V.K. Bhatia 

more savings

“AGREEMENT ON EUM, BESIDES OPENING THE DOOR TO INCREASED DEFENCE TRADE AND SECURITY COOPERATION, INDICATES A HIGH LEVEL OF TRUST AND COOPERATION BETWEEN THE US AND INDIA.” —RON SOMERS, PRESIDENT, US-INDIA BUSINESS COUNCIL

F125IN: Reduced life-cycle costs to make Jaguar roar.

The Indian Air Force has the opportunity to dramatically increase the capability and performance of its Jaguar fleet — while saving over 7,000 crores in operational costs.

- Greater time between maintenance - 2,000 hours minimum time between overhaul - Lower cost maintenance - Reduced fuel consumption F125IN engine from Honeywell. The future is now.

raised its ugly head again? At the time of signing the deal, it was India’s offer of a dedicated safeguard facility for reprocessing of spent fuel that had cleared the hurdle for the US to concede reprocessing rights to India. While the safeguards and verification of the facility was to be

      

Issue 7 • 2009

SP’S AVIATION

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MILITARY

MMRCA

COMING SOON:

FIELDTRIALS

The fourth of the eight phases that define India’s Defence Procurement Procedure was scheduled for completion

by March-April 2010, but in all likelihood will stretch till at least the latter part of the year

W PHOTOGRAPHS: WWW.NAVY.MIL, WWW.EUROFIGHTER.COM, WWW.AIRLINERS.NET AND SP GUIDE PUBNS

hat’s next? And, most imeight phases of procurement stage.

By Air Marshal (Retd) portantly, when? Next is the From its inception in 2001, the V.K. Bhatia ‘Field Trials’. As for when, MMRCA programme has taken over eight while a guesstimate would grinding years to go past the ‘Technical be uncalled for—highlyEvaluation’ phase. It is only hoped that placed sources point to August-end—perhaps ‘round the cor- the remaining phases will be conducted with greater alacner’ would suffice, given the infusion of hope in the wake of rity than shown hitherto for the IAF to get the aircraft the UPA’s return to power. Admittedly, decks have been cleared within reasonable time frame. for India’s most ambitious defence programme: acquisition of While the IAF is reportedly gearing up to commence the 126 Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) for the In- arduous task of ‘Flight Trials’, the contending companies dian Air Force (IAF) to enter the next phase of the country’s have launched rigorous campaigns/lobbying for their respeclaborious Defence Procurement Procedure. tive jet fighters with special offers. To refresh memories, six Just prior to the elections, the IAF had completed the aircraft are in the fray for India’s ‘Mother of all defence deals’ Herculean and highly complicated task of technical evalu- order—the Saab Gripen, Eurofighter Typhoon, Dassault Raation of the responses to India’s request for proposal (RFP) fale, Mikoyan MiG-35, Lockheed Martin F-16IN and Boeing from the six competing global vendors, and submitted the F/A-18IN (a version of the Super Hornet). report to the Defence Ministry. Subsequently, while the To flight evaluate all competing aircraft, the IAF has chalked groundwork had commenced, it was evident that the next up a comprehensive programme involving tests at three differphase of the procurement procedure would be undertaken ent locations in India: technical and humid conditions tests in only after the general elections and the formation of the Bangalore; hot-weather desert trials in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan; new government. ‘Field Trials’ is the just the fourth of the Continued on page 16

14

LOCKHEED MARTIN’S F-16IN SUPER VIPER

BOEING’S F/A-18E/F SUPER HORNET

Lockheed Martin has offered a customised version of the F-16, the F-16IN Super Viper for the Indian MMRCA contract. It will be more advanced than the F-16 Block 52s sold to Pakistan. Based closely on the F-16E/F Block 60 supplied to the UAE, the features on the F-16IN would include; conformal fuel tanks; a Northrop Grumman AN-APG-80 AESA radar; A General Electric F110-132A engine with 143 kN full reheat thrust with FADEC; advanced all-colour glass cockpit and helmet mounted cueing system. In addition Lockheed Martin has offered India to participate in its F-35 Lightning II aircraft in the future, more so, if the F-16 is chosen.

The Super Hornet variant being offered to India, the F/A-18IN is based on the F/A-18E/F model flown by the US Navy and currently being built for the RAAF (Royal Australian Air Force). Raytheon’s APG-79 AESA radar being offered with the aircraft will have limited transfer of technology, up to the level approved by the US government and meeting India’s RFP requirements. Boeing has proposed joint manufacture of the jet fighters with Indian partners. In order to satisfy the offset requirements, Boeing has taken a lead by signing long-term partnership agreements with HAL, Tata Industries and Larsen & Toubro, who will play a significant role in production and assembly of the aircraft, if selected.

SP’S AVIATION

Issue 7 • 2009

www.spsaviation.net

www.eurofighter.com

nothing comes close

MILITARY MMRCA

EUROFIGHTER TYPHOON

MIKOYAN MIG-35

SAAB GRIPEN NG

Eurofighter is offering the latest Tranche-3 Typhoon for the Indian requirement, equipped with the Captor-E (CAESAR) AESA radar. EADS has invited India to become a “partner” of the Eurofighter Typhoon programme, if the Typhoon wins the contract and will be given technological and development participation in future models of the aircraft.

The Mikoyan MiG-35 is the production version of the latest MiG-29 incorporating mature development of the MiG-29M/M2 and MiG-29K/KUB technology, such as glass cockpit and fly-by-wire, and so on. If continuity was a major factor in aircraft selection, MiG-35 would have a decisive advantage as the IAF already operates 65 MiG-29s, and the Navy has ordered 16 MiG-29Ks for its aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya (formerly Admiral Gorshkov). However, it is quite obvious that the overall outcome of the competition would heavily lean on operational capabilities of each contending aircraft for the final selection.

The single-engine Saab JAS 39 Gripen has been in the contention of the MMRCA competition from the very beginning. The aircraft, both the single and twin-seat versions flew extensively during the Aero India 2007 air show. Gripen International is offering the Gripen NG (Next Generation) for the IAF which has increased fuel capacity, more powerful engine, higher payload and upgraded avionics.

STATUS OF THE MMRCA DEAL STAGES AS PER DPP ALREADY COMPLETED 1

Formulation of Service Qualitative Requirements

2 Solicitation of Offers 3 Technical Evaluation STAGES TO GO DASSAULT RAFALE The Rafale has the distinct advantage of being logistically and operationally similar to the Mirage 2000, which the IAF already operates, and has used with great success during the Kargil War. The French government has cleared full technology transfer of the Rafale to India, including that of the RBE2-AA AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) radar, which will be integrated with the Rafale by 2010. The IAF will have full access to the source codes, which will allow Indian scientists to re-programme any sensitive equipment on as required basis. Dassault has also offered to fit the indigenous Kaveri engine into the Rafale at anytime, should the IAF so desire. On the opposite side, there appear to be some concerns about cost issues but these may be overcome by the fact that India and France have recently agreed to “go beyond a buyer-seller relationship”.

Continued from page 14

even as, Leh in Ladakh has been earmarked for the conduct of high-altitude trials where the ground level exceeds 10,000ft amsl. Taking into account the number of bidders, the number of locations and all-encompassing testing scenarios of hot and humid, hot and dry, and hot and high, the task of flight-testing all the aircraft will undoubtedly be time consuming.

That’s not all. According to the latest reports, while the single-seat versions of the competing aircraft will be tested in 16

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4 Field Trials 5 Staff Evaluation 6 Technical Oversight 7 Commercial Evaluation and Negotiations 8 Contract Signing and Management India, the twin-seat versions as also selected weapons’ trials will be conducted in the manufacturers’ respective country locations. Rumour is the bidding aircraft will be summoned one by one, or a maximum of two at a time, for the tests in India. Similarly, it is quite possible that the two sets of designated flight evaluation teams will visit the respective manufacturers’ locations abroad, turn by turn, to complete the remaining trials.

The task is nothing short of daunting and, even though earlier scheduled for completion by March-April 2010, would in all likelihood stretch till at least the latter part of the year. Other steps, especially the ‘Commercial Evaluation and Price Negotiations’, are complex procedures that cannot be completed in a hurry. All in all, while assurances from various quarters that the MMRCA would be in service by 2014 might be somewhat unrealistic, it is imperative that the deal is finalised expeditiously. The IAF cannot wait interminably for this much needed combat capability transfusion. SP www.spsaviation.net

MILITARY

UPGRADE

JAGUAR

REVAMP

As a major part of the programme, the IAF has set up a committee to help it select new and more powerful engines

PHOTOGRAPHS: SP GUIDE PUBNS

T

he original designers/manucraft in 1981 from the BAe. While the RAF facturers and their countries’ aircraft were returned during the period

By Air Marshal air forces namely, the UK’s 1982-84, licensed production at HAL saw (Retd) Royal Air Force (RAF) and the the IAF receiving another 58 Jaguar IS, 10 V.K. Bhatia French Air Force (FAF), may Jaguar IB (twin-seaters) and 12 Jaguar IM have consigned it to the an(maritime attack) versions. An additional nals of history and their aerospace muse15 strike aircraft (reportedly a mix of ums, but the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) love strike and maritime attack versions) were affair with the Jaguar continues. The latest order for 20 strike ordered in 1993 with the delivery being completed in 1999. version Jaguars is likely to keep Bangalore-based Hindustan Meanwhile, the IAF placed an order for 17 Jaguar IB twinAeronautics Limited (HAL) busy at least till the next year. The seaters with HAL. To be primarily used to meet the training IAF also has ambitious plans to inject with a massive dose needs of the Jaguar squadrons, the aircraft are likely have of upgrades its entire Jaguar fleet covering all important de- an operational role as precision night-attack aircraft using partments, such as avionics and armament, besides newer laser guided bombs (LGBs). The aircraft were to be fitted with and more potent power plants to transform the aircraft into the latest avionics with embedded global positioning systems meaner war-fighting machines.

(GPS) to ensure highly accurate navigation. The delivery of Purchased in 1978 to meet the requirement for a deep these aircraft were on when the IAF placed another order for penetration strike aircraft, the Jaguar has served with the IAF 20 strike Jaguars to raise a sixth frontline squadron. since the induction of the first 18 ‘on loan’ aircraft from the RAF in July 1979. The IAF received its first of 35 Jaguar IS UP THE QUALITY CURVE (single-seat strike version) and five Jaguar IB (twin-seat) air- The BAe-built Jaguars were fitted with the Navigation and Issue 7 • 2009

SP’S AVIATION

17

MILITARY UPGRADE Weapon-Aiming Sub-System (NAVWASS) avionics suite which at the time of induction brought in a mini revolution vis-àvis navigation and weapon-aiming accuracies achieved with the help of onboard computerised systems. These compared extremely well in contrast to the older systems of navigation through manual map reading and weapon aiming with the help of gyro/fixed gun-sights fitted on other aircraft in the IAF’s inventory. However, NAVWASS was the first generation system with attendant problems of reliability. Incidents of the system ‘dumping’ on the ground as well as in the air were considerable which resulted in abortive sorties.

To overcome these problems HAL-built Jaguars were fitted with the more advanced Display Attack and Ranging Inertial Navigation (DARIN) avionics suites. These featured a wide fieldof-view Smiths (GEC Avionics) Type 1301 HUDWAC (Head-UP Display & Weapon Aiming Computer), a GEC-Ferranti COMED 2045 (Combined Map & Electronic Display), a SAGEM ULISS 82 INS (Inertial Navigation System) and a LRMTS (Laser Ranger and Marked Target Seeker). The system also included a locally-designed IFF (Identification Friend/Foe), ADF (Automatic Direction Finder), radar altimeter, U/VHF R/T sets and HF/SSB equipment. The maritime-attack Jaguars IM sported nosemounted Agave radar with display facility in either the HUD or the COMED. Capable of air-to-air operations as well, the Agave was optimised for maritime air-to-surface operations.

The Jaguar was essentially designed as a low-level strike platform to deliver a reasonable weight of armament load against enemy targets located in depth. Armed with two internal 30 mm Aden guns and 150 rounds of ammunition each, the Jaguar IS carries a variety of unguided/guided ordnance such as the AS-30L ASM, BL755 cluster bombs, 1,000 lb standard and retarded bombs, Durandal and BAP-100 anti-runway bombs, Lepus flares and Matra F1 and 155 (SNEB) rocket pods. The Jaguar IS aircraft were also modified to carry MagicII air-to-air missiles over the wing for self-protection against enemy interceptors. The Jaguar IMs used the Sea Eagle missile in the anti-shipping maritime strike role.

A fully laden Jaguar, for example, can carry a 4,000 lb bomb load with two external drop tanks and full internal fuel and attain a typical operational radius of action close to 400 km in a low-low-low sortie profile. This was more than one and a half to two times the legacy Russian fighters operating in the IAF at the time of its induction. No wonder the Jaguars were accorded pride of place in the IAF, and though overtaken by more potent aircraft, such as the Mirage 2000s and Su-30MKIs, these continue to occupy a niche place so far as overall offensive strike capability, especially in the low-level regime, is concerned.

GROWING PRESENCE

With the sobriquet of a ‘Deep Penetration Strike Aircraft’ attached to its name (even though somewhat misplaced), the Jaguars started to get inducted into some of the squadrons which were phasing out the older Canberra light bombers.

The IAF Jaguar fleet formed five operational squadrons—four strike (Nos. 5, 14, 16 and 27) operating the IS variant and one maritime attack squadron (No. 6) operating the IM variant.

The IB dual seat trainers were distributed equitably to meet the training needs of the individual squadrons. The earlier BAe supplies plus the HAL production amounted to 120 Jaguars for the IAF. The later induction of 15 Jaguars during the period 1993-99 brought the total delivered to the service to 135. Out of 18

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Issue 7 • 2009

these, a total of 37 Jaguars have been lost in various accidents/ mishaps in the last 31 years of the aircraft’s operational service in the IAF at an average of a little over one aircraft per year.

Significantly, the other two major air forces operating the type, namely, the RAF and the FAF, lost a total of 78 and 54 Jaguars, respectively, during their operational tenure with each service. As far as the IAF is concerned, the combined orders of 17 IB and the 20 IS variants would restore the fleet’s strength back to 135 aircraft and may give it the option of raising a sixth squadron as discussed earlier.

Evidently, the Jaguar fleet continues to be a major contributor to the IAF’s overall combat punch, especially its strike capability. Another factor which has contributed to its popularity is that the aircraft has continued to be evolved during its service life to periodically move to the next higher level of capabilities. One of the big milestones was the mating of the Jaguar with the Israeli Litening targeting pods. These pods have significantly increased the combat effectiveness of the aircraft in day/night operations while attacking ground targets with a variety of weapons, including the LGBs. AVIONICS UPGRADE

Determined to keep the fleet going for at least another decade, that is, till 2020, the IAF has embarked upon a fresh initiative to upgrade the aircraft—especially its avionics and engines. Contracts have been signed with western and Israeli companies to upgrade the avionics of the ‘strike’ Jaguars.

From NAVWASS to DARIN and then on to DARIN-II, the latest buzz is that the entire fleet will be upgraded to DARIN-II+ www.spsaviation.net

MILITARY UPGRADE MORE POWERFUL ENGINES

FACELIFT: CONTRACTS HAVE BEEN SIGNED WITH WESTERN AND ISRAELI COMPANIES TO UPGRADE THE AVIONICS OF THE ‘STRIKE’ JAGUARS

standards. The aircraft will have a standard MIL-STD-1553B digital databus and bus-compatible line-replaceable units. The manmachine interface will be dramatically improved with the addition of the wide-angle holographic ElOp HUD with enhanced field of view of 30 deg X 22 deg and compatible with FLIR or raster video imagery. The aircraft are also to have a new head down display capable of displaying a digital moving map, FLIR or video imagery and perhaps even electronic checklists and terminal approach plates. There is also a new video-based HUD camera and a multi-channel digital video colour recorder which will allow the HUD, moving map display and other imagery to be recorded simultaneously.

Navigational accuracy is being enhanced through the addition of an INS-RLG with embedded GPS and later, perhaps, by the addition of Terrain Reference Navigation System.

An ELTA-built airborne self-protection jammer and an indigenous Radar Warning Receiver are also being installed as the aircraft’s ECM suite is becoming increasingly redundant. The fleet will reportedly be wired to carry the Litening Laser Designator Pod, which may also necessitate a new stick-top and hand controller which would give greater HOTAS (Hands on Throttle and Stick) functionality and allow a laser designator to be used safely even at low level by the single-seat Jaguars. The aircraft is also slated for an upgraded autopilot which would be extremely useful for the laser designation role.

The aircraft’s ‘Achilles Heel’ has always been its underpowered Rolls-Royce/Turbomeca engines, Mk804E or Rolls-Royce Mk811 (produced under licence by HAL) which are fitted on the IAF’s Jaguars. Armed with maximum permissible bomb load and with full internal/external fuel a strike Jaguar in a fully laden configuration can weigh up to 34,600 lb at take-off.

However, the twin 804s/811s fitted on the aircraft could produce a maximum of around 15,000 lb combined static thrust resulting in a less than 0.5 thrust/weight ratio. This called for skillful handling of the aircraft even in the cooler climes at higher latitudes. The problem got more compounded in the tropical climate of India. The in-flight emergency handling of the aircraft in a single-engine configuration also left no room for error. Many CAT-I accidents (aircraft totally destroyed) were attributed to this major shortcoming in the aircraft. Also, even under normal circumstances, performance of the aircraft suffered at medium/high altitudes due to this deficiency.

As a major part of its Jaguar upgrade programme, the IAF has set up a committee to help it select new and more powerful engines for the overweight/underpowered aircraft. The new engines will not only enhance safety but also improve the Jaguar’s mission performance, especially in medium and high level sortie profiles. This will enable the Jaguar to undertake missions which are not possible with the existing engines. Headed by K.V.L. Rao, an aero engine expert and a former director (propulsion systems) with the ADA (Aeronautical Development Agency) handling the LCA programme, the committee was tasked to recommend which of the two engines offered by Honeywell and Rolls-Royce, respectively, be selected for re-engining the IAF Jaguars.

For the multi-billion dollar programme, which will see the IAF acquiring up to 280 engines, Honeywell is offering the F125IN, a 43.8 kilo Newton (kN) thrust engine which will provide a quantum jump to the Jaguar’s thrust/weight ratio when compared with Adour Mk811 (32.5 kN) engines that power the aircraft. Rolls-Royce, on the other hand, is offering its Adour Mk821 which is the reheat version of Adour Mk871 engine fitted on the recently acquired Hawk Advance Jet Trainer of the IAF. According to Honeywell, its F125IN engine (showcased during Aero India 2009 at Bangalore) is designed to be a dropfit retrofit for the Jaguar and requires no changes to the aircraft engine bay or inlet. The engine maker claims that the engine’s modern design will transform the Jaguar aircraft as its best in class thrust-to-weight will provide a 23 per cent reduction in take-off distance or 2,000 kg increase in allowable take-off weight and up to 36 per cent improvement in mission radius.

Rolls-Royce claims that Mk821, which is built on the proven technology of the Adour aero engines, offers a low risk route to the twin benefits of greater thrust for the Jaguars and a high degree of commonality with the Mk871 which powers the IAF’s recent acquisition, the Hawk trainer. Honeywell counters by stating that the modular construction of the F125IN, with its advanced, dual full authority digital control system, would save the IAF $1.5 billion (Rs 7,155 crore) in life cycle costs.

In the final analysis, what matters most is speedy decision by the selectors to ensure timely implementation of the Jaguar re-engining programme. With 20 to 25 per cent more powerful engines and, equipped with more capable avionics, the Jaguars of the IAF are sure to continue to occupy ‘pride of place’ among its strike force. SP Issue 7 • 2009

SP’S AVIATION

19

C O V E R

S T O R Y

BUSINESS AVIATION

ENVIRONMENT

UNTAPPED

POTENTIAL A variety of factors—ranging from

infrastructural bottlenecks to an inflexible bureaucracy—has long stymied the growth of Indian business aviation

PHOTOGRAPHS: SP GUIDE PUBNS/ ABHISHEK SINGH

By Group Captain (Retd) Joseph Noronha, Goa

T

HE RECENT PROTRACTED ELECTION PROCESS MAY HAVE TESTED the patience of many but it proved a boon to Indian business aviation. With scores of indefatigable netas keen on addressing election meetings across the country, air charter never had it so good.

For weeks it was party time. As Fredrik Groth, CEO of Air Works said, at the time, “With election time on in India, the helicopter charter industry has left the recession hit market far behind and seems to have overcome all figures in this regard.” One source estimated that as many as 55 helicopters flew 600 sorties during the period. In the process, many of the unique characteristics of non-scheduled aviation were highlighted: the ability to reach far-flung places in quick time, the freedom to revise plans and schedules at short notice, the privacy, the sheer convenience.

However, a variety of factors—ranging from infrastructural bottlenecks to an inflexible bureaucracy—has long stymied the growth of Indian business aviation, preventing it from achieving its huge potential. Now that a stable government is in place in Delhi, hopes have been raised that systemic short20

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Issue 7 • 2009

comings will be tackled with much-needed determination.

RECESSION BITES

The current global recession that has inflicted considerable pain on India, seems to have clouded the prospects of the air www.spsaviation.net

BUSINESS AVIATION ENVIRONMENT tag in 2001—the dollar denominated pricing makes import of aircraft that much more expensive. Government regulations also seem somewhat lacking in clarity. Captain Karan Singh, President of Business Aviation Association for India (BAAI), says, “Import duty on business aircraft is very short-sighted.

The process of acquiring an aircraft is cumbersome—it takes from three to nine months. Also, the RBI regulations to move money create a headache.” (Refer to ‘Fractional Ownership is a Failed Model in India’, SP’s Aviation, July 2009.)

Another headache seems to be on account of the Customs Department. Customs officials allege that some companies obtained non-scheduled operator permits (NSOP) for their aircraft but instead put them to personal use; others floated a company to import aircraft, then chartered them to the mother company; in still other cases, companies, after importing aircraft, sold, leased or chartered them to those who did not have an NSOP. However, if an aircraft imported for non-scheduled services is put to personal use, the taxman takes a dim view, and a huge fine is imposed. Consequently, over the last few months, many businesses have taken fright and altogether scrapped plans for importing aircraft.

There are around 400 existing unused airstrips in the country that could, with a little effort, be converted into business aviation hubs

charter industry, at least in the short term. The International Monetary Fund’s estimate for India’s growth in 2009 is a modest 4.5 per cent. Though other authorities feel this figure is needlessly pessimistic, there is no denying that companies, entrepreneurs and aircraft manufacturers have turned cautious. Colonel Jayanth Poovaiah, Executive Director, Deccan Charters Ltd says, “Demand for business aviation generally is a function of corporate profits and the economy.” Air charter and fractional ownership are slowing as companies seek to reduce executive travel in an effort to cut costs. Several charter providers are scaling down their plans. For instance, Bjets (India) has deferred deliveries of six aircraft, which were scheduled to join its fleet this year.

Till now, in the Asia-Pacific region, the Indian appetite for business jets was second only to China’s. But the drying up of liquidity means that many companies that intended to import jets have put their plans on hold. Some are even selling their aircraft. Though the cost of a five-seat new jet has come down to an affordable Rs 8 crore—a 90 per cent drop from the price

AN INDIAN MODEL

Despite the prevailing economic gloom, experts are unanimous that India’s long-term growth story is intact. Once the current slowdown passes the rebound is expected to be vigorous. The same goes for business aviation. A number of industrial parks and special economic zones (SEZs) are under construction, many in remote areas. Executives need to travel to and fro expeditiously and free of the hassles of commercial flights. According to BAAI estimates, India already has 275 private fixed-wing aircraft, plus 227 helicopters. However, to view this figure in perspective, at the close of 2007, the US fixedwing business fleet alone comprised nearly 34,000 piston, turboprop and jet aircraft. Obviously, India’s business aviation sector is growing from a low base, and has excellent mid-to long-term prospects. Though growth has slipped from the predicted 40 per cent pace, it is still a healthy 25 per cent.

The coast is now clear for another 30 companies to launch non-scheduled services in the country. They will swell the existing figure of over 160 charter operators, including passenger and cargo. However, therein lies the rub. The tally of aspiring charter operators is long—like the list of over a thousand Indian political parties—but not all are serious players.

Yet another imperative is to develop a business model specifically tailored to the Indian scene. Some believe that fractional Issue 7 • 2009

SP’S AVIATION

21

BUSINESS AVIATION ENVIRONMENT ownership faces a culture bias and is unlikely to succeed.

Nigel A. Harwood, CEO Inter Globe General Aviation Private Limited explains, “There is a mental setup in the clients here which does not believe in sharing aircraft. All owners want the aircraft exclusively for themselves and at their beck and call.”

While this may be true from the owner’s perspective, as far as end-users are concerned India’s aviation market is remarkably price-sensitive. If a customer believes the price is right, he or she will bite. On the other hand, privacy is not the critical issue as it is in the West. Everything from auto-rickshaws to accommodation is cheerfully shared with perfect strangers—so long as it saves money.

Another opinion, therefore, is that the future belongs to aircraft pools or shared air-taxis. The enormous latent demand for affordable business aviation could well be met by social networking services which make use of the Internet to match businesspeople with business flights. As always, information holds the key.

Then there are empty seats and empty legs. If a Mumbai-based executive needs to be in Kolkata the following day and learns there’s a free seat on a Kolkata-bound business jet, albeit of another company, wouldn’t that be wonderful? Full-paying customers sometimes book a one-way flight which means the aircraft has to return to its home base unoccupied. Such unoccupied flights are known as empty legs. Business travel agents could send “empty-leg emails” to those wishing to be kept abreast of

BUSINESS AVIATION ENVIRONMENT LOOKING UP: AIRNETZ PREDICTS THAT BY 2014, THE COST OF FLYING IN A PRIVATE AIR-TAXI WILL EQUAL THAT OF A SCHEDULED COMMERCIAL FLIGHT (SEEN HERE IS PUNJ LLOYD GROUP’S GULFSTREAM IV)

such golden opportunities, once again enabling a perfect match.

SILVER LINING

Another prospect opening up for Indian business aviation lies in the drop in service standards of scheduled carriers as they struggle to rein in costs in a harsh economic environment. The muchawaited economic recovery is likely to be accompanied by a steep rise in the price of fuel, and where will that leave the airlines? Probably with little choice but to hike fares and slash flights and routes— a strategy sure to drive away many more passengers. This gap could be filled by air-taxi operators prepared to offer no-frills, low-cost, point-to-point and efficient services.

In fact, for a variety of reasons, AirNetz Research predicts a dramatic share-shift from commercial to private aviation.

According to its latest study published in April, passengers carried by non-scheduled operators increased a stunning 70 per cent from 2007 to 2008. The numbers equalled 1.5 per cent of the passengers traveling by scheduled airlines and the ratio is rising. The lowest hourly charter cost for a five-seat turboprop aircraft has dipped to Rs 55,000, implying a per hour-per person price tag of Rs 11,000—or 3.5 times as much as on a commercial airline. AirNetz also finds that turboprop charter is the biggest growth market

It’s as if we read the minds of India’s business leaders. In many ways, we did.

Some Citation business jets are so perfectly suited to doing business in India, it’s as if they were created specifically for that purpose. Here’s why: Every Citation is based on what customers tell us they need. Those customers come from all over the world, but they all have three things in common: They are poised on the brink of a major breakthrough in the growth of their business. They are seeing opportunities like never before. And they are looking for the undeniably best way to seize them. Their answer can be your answer – the best-selling business jets and propeller aircraft in the world. For a free, no-obligation analysis of what a Citation business jet can do for your company call Mike McGreevy at 971.4.295.4822 or visit Citation.Cessna.com.

Cessna Aircraft Sure Thing®

BUSINESS AVIATION ENVIRONMENT

QUOTE UNQUOTE Nigel A. Harwood CEO, Inter Globe General Aviation Private Limited

‘Reduce bureaucratic hurdles’ SP’s Aviation (SP’s): How do you rate the current business aviation environment in India?

Nigel A. Harwood (NH): I have always felt business aviation is not promoted well. But it is growing at a rapid rate of 10 per cent to 15 per cent annually. Hence, it needs a lot of attention from the authorities.

SP’s: Enumerate two short and long term goals each for the business aviation industry in India.

NH: Short term goals could be to have fixed base operations and create a better job market for the locals. We already have 10 per cent to 15 per cent jobs approximately in the general aviation sector out of the complete aviation industry in India. We should think of more employment generation. Two most important long term goals would be to, first, reduce the bureaucratic hurdles, and second, market the concept of business aviation to clients of all levels.

SP’s: What are the key problems besetting the general aviation industry in India?

NH: To name some—parking, drainage, vehicular traffic and allotment of hangars. We have been fortunate to have an independent hangar.

But the major problem is the absence of fixed base operators (FBOs) at the airports all over India. I am optimistic that this problem will get solved, at least for Delhi. Delhi International Airport Limited has floated a tender to which our company has made a bid in collaboration with Signature Flight Support, a BBA Aviation company and the world’s largest FBO and distribution network for business aviation services.

SP’s: What is the difference in the functioning of general aviation vis-à-vis civil aviation?

NH: Not much by way of rules and regulations. Be it medical, legal, safety and minimum flying hours—the same norms apply to both the sectors.

We follow the European Aviation Safety Authority norms, too; and this is in addition to India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation regulations.

SP’s: What are the concerns pertaining to human capital?

NH: Essentially, this can be divided into two categories—pilots and other staff. There are no financial concerns, as it is the best paid industry. Pilots are very sensitive individuals and their needs have to be addressed seriously. In business aviation, pilots have very flexible hours and at times very less flying in comparison to scheduled airlines. But they are hired for the complete month, which means they can play golf if there is no flying.

SP’s: How would you rate the training facilities in India for business aviation pilots?

NH: There are absolutely no training facilities in India for pilots and we have to send them abroad to the training facilities of the aircraft manufacturers. This also stands true for helicopters.

SP’s: Who are your clients?

NH: HCL, Reliance, Oberoi, Tata, Kingfisher and the Uttar Pradesh government, to name a few. We sell and service Hawker Beechcraft which is in great demand with the higher echelons.

SP’s: Which are the taxes and charges levied by the Indian government which need to be given a serious thought?

NH: It would be far easier if custom duties could be lessened. Also, import licensing should need to be made compatible to the other countries.

SP’s: What are the cost and recurring expenditures involved for private companies keen to own a business jet?

NH: The cost of buying is dependent on the manufacturing company and, therefore, is variable. Maintenance, infrastructural requirements for parking, office premises and salaries are the recurring costs and these, too, are variable, depending on the ownership. Of course, the payments to authorities in the form of various fees are recurring expenditure, too.

I will not be able to give a precise figure. But securing finance is not difficult. You can get it in dollars or in the Indian rupee at 10 per cent to 12 per cent interest rates. It is better to take it in the Indian rupee.

SP’s: With the UPA back in power, what are the changes you are looking forward to?

NH: I feel economic reforms could be beneficial to the aviation sector.

Also, I hope red-tapism becomes a little less.

in India, increasing at over 50 per cent annually.

Going by these trends, AirNetz predicts that by 2014, the cost of flying in a private air-taxi will equal the cost of taking a scheduled commercial flight. This is incredible, because it hasn’t yet been achieved anywhere in the world. If the prediction were to come true, it would be only a matter of time before non-scheduled travellers equal or even exceed the numbers using regular airlines.

STUCK IN A TIME WARP?

A mouth-watering prospect, indeed! Then what is holding Indian business aviation back? Inadequate infrastructure is, undoubtedly, the biggest bugbear. Karan Singh says, “Alternative airports in big cities are required. Smaller cities also need airports, only then can business aviation penetrate the markets 24

SP’S AVIATION

Issue 7 • 2009

SP’s: List the top priorities for business aviation in India.

NH: First is setting up of fixed base operation areas in airports of all categories. Second is maintaining quality of service, both technical and flying. Third is marketing of corporate aircraft and helicopters to business men of all levels and customising it to their needs. Fourth is to create a market in non-metro cities and among semi-urban potential buyers.

in semi-urban areas. Heliports which are very much the need of the industry seem to be a remote possibility.”

According to Airports Authority of India figures, there are only 127 airports—16 international airports, 87 domestic airports and 24 defence airports with civil enclaves. And business aircraft are not always welcome. “Scheduled airlines are given more importance,” explains Poovaiah. “For example there are certain major airports like BIAL Bangalore which do not allow business aviation to operate. There are smaller airports which operate only during the arrival/departure of scheduled airlines and if business aviation is to operate outside these hours then they have to apply 48 hours in advance and have to pay additional charges.”

If airports are few, Fixed Base Operators or Fixed Base of Operations (FBOs) servicing centres, which specifically cater www.spsaviation.net

BUSINESS AVIATION ENVIRONMENT

QUOTE UNQUOTE

‘Policy on tax should be unambiguous’ Colonel (Retd) Jayanth K. Poovaiah Executive Director, Deccan Charters Limited

ment to provide a nationwide service, with optimised fleets. Another key area lacking is educating the market of the efficiencies of using business aviation. Businesses need to be shown the rationale of the cost of executive time and the efficiencies that are lost by not availing business aviation.

While more serious players are entering the sector and the government has made some progress by updating antiquated policies and infrastructure in the country to promote civil aviation, it still lags behind in meeting the needs of the growing market. Special and dedicated infrastructure will be needed to allow business aviation to grow to it full potential.

SP’s: What are the key problems plaguing day-to-day operations?

JP: At present, according to Civil Aviation Regulation (CAR) stipulations, a pilot is required to have a minimum of 100 hours Pilot in Command (PIC) to be eligible for Single Pilot Operations (SPO). This requirement is too high and restricts optimal utilisation of experienced pilots. Instead, any pilot having 1,000 hours PIC on helicopters should be cleared to operate SPO once he has 25 hours PIC on type. This will ensure that the pilot has adequate overall flying experience and is also adequately familiar with the type of aircraft.

Further, at many airports there is no transport available transfer crew to/from the aircraft to air traffic control and other locations. Even at airports where such facilities are available through the Airports Authority of India, the charges are very high.

SP’s: What are key taxes/duties/levies/charges that add to the expense of owning and operating a business aircraft?

JP: Key taxes/duties/levies/charges that add to the expense of owning and operating a business aircraft are: Taxes on lease of aircraft from abroad adds to cost significantly. Government should reintroduce the exemption under IT. There are not enough aircraft in India and importing will not adversely affect the Indian market.

Service tax element on the interest paid on lease finance which should also be removed, since the external borrowings are also expensive and increases the cost of operation. There need not be a tax on servicing of borrowings from abroad since this would not reduce the demand for domestic funds given that we anyway depend on funds from abroad.

Policy on any tax should be clear and unambiguous, as was the case of the applicability of service tax. Operators had to seek expert opinion. We do not have any other major taxes. Other taxes/duties/levies/charges in operation are: • Customs duty on non-spares imports (tools, consumables, and so on).

• VAT, excise duty, and so on on all domestic purchases and service tax on a majority of services, including those rendered in India from abroad.

• Entry tax, Octroi (Mumbai) on all domestic purchases from outside the state of use • Freight and forwarding.

• Landing and parking charges.

• Fringe Benefit Tax and Income Tax as for all.

SP’s: Describe the current business aviation environment in India.

What should be the outlook in the short and long term?

JP: Currently, the business aviation industry is in a state of unstructured growth largely responding to the needs of corporate India. It remains dominated by a large number of small players who own one to two aircraft and are unable to optimise their fleets to offer nationwide services at reasonable costs that will also allow them to remain independently profitable. The industry needs a few large players with significant invest-

SP’s: What are the main shortcomings in India’s business aviation infrastructure?

JP: There is a paucity of airfields for a country the size of India. Since airports do not have dedicated terminals for business aviation, passengers have to go through the same tedious processes like any other traveller. Helicopters are even lower on the priority and are not given separate entry and exit routes. As a consequence of this, inordinate delays lead to higher operating costs.

SP’s Aviation (SP’s): How do you perceive the growth of business aviation in India in the short and long term perspective?

Colonel Jayanth Poovaiah (JP): Indian economy (apart from the last 12 months) has enjoyed a relatively good period of growth. In fact, even in the current turmoil, India has not been impacted as significantly as the rest of the world. Indian entrepreneurs have created a tremendous amount of wealth over the last few years. Another important driver is the growth of second tier cities in India as centres of industrial and economic growth. With all major businesses having their corporate offices in metros like Mumbai, Delhi and Kolkata but their factories and facilities at smaller towns a few hundred kilometers away, demand for helicopter and light aircraft charter is bound to grow.

to the needs of business aviation, are non-existent. Though AirNetz promises separate terminals and priority for security checks, most business travellers are required to proceed through customs, security and immigration along with regular airline passengers. Having paid considerably more than the latter, can they be blamed for feeling aggrieved?

In fact, business aircraft have to compete with scheduled flights for everything from flight clearance to take-off and landing priority. Harwood says, “I have always felt that business aviation is a poor relation of civil aviation.” A harried air traffic controller may be somewhat less concerned about a four-passenger Very Light Jet than a 400-passenger jumbo

jet. The scene is no better at military airports where lack of synergy between civil and military authorities and the security restrictions of the latter often make life difficult for business travellers. However, there are around 400 existing unused airstrips in the country that could, with a little effort, be converted into business aviation hubs. Usage charges would also be lower at smaller airports and the air traffic scene much more comfortable.

Airport charges worldwide have been slashed anywhere between 10 and 50 per cent in an effort to attract more traffic. In India, on the contrary, charges have recently been increased approximately 10 per cent at some privately operContinued on page 30

26

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Issue 7 • 2009

www.spsaviation.net

BUSINESS AVIATION

CESSNA PERSPECTIVE

A

pparently the editor of a campaigning weekly Indian newspaper is fond of telling foreigners: “Everything you think you know about India is correct. But the opposite is also true.” To be sure India offers considerable potential for the future. In the 1990s, as the government of the time drove the liberalisation (to some extent) of the Indian economy, By business boomed as globalisation took a firm foothold. McKinsey management consultancy in Trevor Esling, 2007 forecast that India will have the fifth largVice President, est consumer market by 2025, with consumpInternational tion quadrupling. India’s biggest companies— Sales, Cessna Tata, Mahindra & Mahindra, Reliance, Infosys, Wipro, Ranbaxy Laboratories and others—are all world-class businesses. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has also shown that the potential rate of GDP per capita growth is some 7 per cent a year, which is almost five times higher than it was from 1950-1980. Lastly, of course, it was the Indian software houses that prompted Thomas Friedman to write his book The World Is Flat.

Set against these impressive statistics, India has become a beacon of likely future demand expansion for all original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) involved in both business and commercial aviation. Many reports were freely circulated during 2007-2008 of the hundred or more business aircraft that had been sold in India at the height of the market, but the reality for business aviation was, as is usually the case, one of slower incremental growth as can be seen below.

Only in the case of the larger commercial market did business truly boom for the OEMs. I recall an executive from Boeing telling me during the Hyderabad Air Show in 2008 that some 11-12 commercial airliners were being delivered to India every month. The result—over-capacity, underutilisation, large losses and consolidation—was an inevitable market development. In business aviation, the growth has certainly notched up several gears. In the past, I would have said a good year for Cessna sales in India was maybe 3-4 new jets a year. Now, that might well be 6-8 aircraft.

I have held the view for some time that India’s growth path would not be unlike that of Brazil where, in Cessna’s case, it has taken us some 30 years to build a fleet in excess of 200 Citations and an overall market share slightly in excess of 50 per cent. India currently shares many of Brazil’s original natural inhibitors to growth which, with the passage of time, have significantly lessened in Brazil.

These restrictions are well known, such as excessive bureaucracy for the importation of aircraft; restrictions on the export of hard currency; a lack of business aviation infrastructure and resources including airports, fixed base operators and qualified pilots; tax issues such as the re-imposition of counter veiling tax in India in March 2007; restrictive operational considerations

‘Horizon looks very Promising in India’ (that is, slot limitations at major airports which are slewed toward favoring the commercial airliners); and restrictions at the more typical secondary market airfields that are the natural home of the business jet. To that end, when I met (Civil Aviation) Minister (Praful) Patel at Hyderabad last year with the US delegation, I found his open acknowledgment of the importance that business aviation would have in the development of the Indian economy very refreshing. It bodes well for the future.

One very interesting paradox of Indian business aviation is that the 28 states as part of the government are big users of business aviation, having recognised the benefits that come with the use of these products, such as ease of movement, time-saving and security aspects. The private sector still has some way to go to catch up with them but I have no doubt it will.

The government sector is then a large consumer of business aircraft and therefore a strong sector for future potential sales, particularly given the more recent trend for moving to jet transportation from propeller.

So we have the apparent contradiction in India of rapid growth in the economy but slower than expected growth in business aviation. However, over time, the natural bureaucratic inhibitors to growth mentioned above will slowly give way to a more open economy which will continue to spur growth in business aviation. Ask me again in five years what a bad Indian market is, sales-wise, for Cessna and I will likely say six to eight aircraft a year and a good market 12 to 16 aircraft annually. I believe India truly offers that potential, and maybe more. However, despite all the newspaper reports at the height of the last pre-‘credit crunch’ boom, we should not expect a sudden and dramatic expansion in demand (nor should we in China either).

Nonetheless, I remain more optimistic about India’s enhanced growth potential in business aviation over the medium term than I am about the Chinese market. By 2025, I would expect India to be in the top 10 individual countries for the purchase of business aviation as globalisation resumes and drives the spread of wealth across the planet (and along with it the use of business aircraft by those very private sector businesses pioneering a new stage in the world’s economic development). India will certainly be in the middle of that development as it takes its place as a major world industrial power. So, no quick fixes, but incremental change and a call of: “Steady as she goes!” are the orders of the day. The horizon certainly looks very promising. SP

With inputs from: Rivals: How the Power Struggle Between China, India and Japan will Shape our Next Decade by Bill Emmott

DELIVERIES IN INDIA 2004-2009 For the period of 2004 through to the second quarter of 2009, Cessna controlled 25% of the market in India for light and medium jets, and large turboprops New Delivery Units – Light / Medium Jets & Large Turboprops 2004 Hawker Cessna

2

2005

%

2006

%

2007

%

2008

%

2009

%

0

4

80

8

80

9

82

6

50

1

25

28

64%

100

1

20

2

20

2

18

3

25

1

25

11

25%

2

17

0

2

5% 2%

Bombardier

0

0

0

0

Gulfstream

0

0

0

0

Piaggio Total

0

0

0

0 100

2

Total

%

100

5

100

10

100

11

0

1

25

1

1

8

1

25

2

5%

12

100

4

100

44

100%

Issue 7 • 2009

SP’S AVIATION

27

BUSINESS AVIATION

G150

GULFSTREAM

Personal Touch The overall value of the G150 goes well beyond just the purchase price By JASON AKOVENKO Regional Vice President, Asia/Pacific Sales, Gulfstream

PHOTOGRAPHS: GULFSTREAM

A CLASS OF ITS OWN: THE G150’S FLIGHT DECK IS BASED ON THE ROCKWELL COLLINS PROLINE 21 AVIONICS SYSTEM AND FEATURES SOME OF THE ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY INHERENT IN THE GULFSTREAM PLANEVIEW COCKPIT, INCLUDING THE GULFSTREAM ENHANCED VISION SYSTEM II

T

he wide-cabin, high-speed Gulfstream G150 remains a favourite in the mid-class market. Announced in 2002 and introduced in 2005, the G150 offers an advanced avionics suite, the most comfortable cabin and the longest range at the fastest speed. It’s also a tremendous value, generating some of the lowest operating costs in the industry.

With its high-thrust, fuel-efficient Honeywell TFE73140AR engines and numerous aerodynamic improvements, the G150 can travel 2,950 nautical miles at a long-range cruise speed of 0.75 Mach. With a maximum speed of 0.85 Mach, the aircraft started breaking records even before it went into service, establishing a city-pair speed record between Tel Aviv 28

SP’S AVIATION

Issue 7 • 2009

and Geneva. In all, the aircraft has set more than 10 city-pair speed records since it entered service in 2006.

COCKPIT: A CUT ABOVE

Inside, the Gulfstream G150 flight deck is based on the Rockwell Collins ProLine 21 avionics system and features some of the advanced technology inherent in the Gulfstream PlaneView cockpit, including the Gulfstream Enhanced Vision System (EVS) II. The second-generation EVS II is available for both new and in-service G150 aircraft.

The Gulfstream EVS II generates actual, real-time images of the aircraft’s surroundings using an infrared camera mounted in the nose of the aircraft. The system dramatically increases www.spsaviation.net

BUSINESS AVIATION GULFSTREAM situational awareness at night and during low-visibility daylight conditions by allowing pilots to see terrain, runways, taxiways and approaches that are undetectable by unaided sight.

Images from EVS II appear on the G150’s 12-by-10inch LCD Multi-Function Displays and are easily selectable through the G150 Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 menu system. Using the signature Gulfstream Cursor Control Devices (CCDs), both the pilot and co-pilot can turn EVS II on or off, adjust the display brightness and contrast, and enable EVS window heat to prevent ice formation on the exterior window. The cockpit’s signature CCD enables G150 pilots to input data easily and provides instant display of information, including flight plan and routing changes.

COMFORT & COMMUNICATIONS

Gulfstream also offers its compact, portable PlaneBook® electronic document manager (EDM) for the G150. A tablet computer pre-loaded with a complete reference library, PlaneBook provides pilots immediate access to critical information during flight.

The software was created by Gulfstream pilots and technical writers to reduce pilot workload.

With a simple point and click, pilots can access data whenever they need it. Outside the cockpit, PlaneBook can serve as a personal laptop during layovers.

Additionally, the G150 cockpit includes the full-span Altitude Direction Indicator, pop-up traffic alert, Traffic Alert Collision Avoidance System with pitch guidance, Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System with wind shear detection, and SATCOM for improved communications capacity for passengers, crew and airtraffic control.

In the back of the aircraft, the G150 features a longer and wider cabin that offers operators a choice of three seating configurations accommodating six to eight passengers comfortably. It also features stand-up headroom, ample aisle space and generous seated headroom and legroom. The 100 per cent fresh-air cabin features large windows that provide more natural light for additional passenger comfort.

Like all Gulfstream aircraft, the G150 is backed by “The World Standard” in product support. It has competitive warranty, training and maintenance programmes. The aircraft’s comprehensive warranty covers its primary structures, engines, and all production components (APU, avionics, and so on) for five years.

STERLING CUSTOMER SERVICE

The award-winning worldwide product support is bolstered by a network of 3,000 fully trained professionals positioned across six continents. Industry-exclusive Gulfstream Airborne Product SupportTM is a value-added customer service offered to Gulfstream aircraft under warranty. In urgent circumstances—and usually when commercial transportation methods are unavailable or will take too long—a specially equipped G100 is dispatched with parts and technicians to customers at no charge. The Gulfstream Parts SupportTM

FAST FACTS PERFORMANCE Maximum range

5,467 km

Normal cruise speed

Mach 0.80

Long-range cruise speed

Mach 0.75

Takeoff distance (SL, ISA, MTOW)

1,524 m

Landing distance (SL, ISA, MLW)

878 m

Initial cruise altitude

12, 497 m

Maximum cruise altitude

13,720 m

WEIGHTS Maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) 11,839 kg Maximum landing weight (MLW)

9,843 kg

Maximum zero fuel weight

7,938 kg

DESIGN STANDARDS Engines (2)

Honeywell TFE 731-40AR

Rated takeoff thrust each

4,420 lbs

Passengers

Typical 6-8

INTERIOR Cabin length

5.4 m.

Cabin height

1.75 m

Cabin width

1.75 m

Cabin volume

13.17 cu. m

EXTERIOR Length

17.30 m

Height

5.82 m

Wingspan

16.94 m

team is integrated with Technical Operations for fast resolution of any technical questions that may arise. Customers can also order parts through a customer-only, secure website, myGulfstream.com. An expansive spare-parts inventory strategically located around the world supports customers in the timeliest fashion.

Operators also reap the benefits of the G150’s MSG-3driven design. With components placed for accessibility, maintenance technicians spend less of their time locating and accessing parts, and more of their time maintaining them.

Additionally, Gulfstream offers the BudgetPlusTM Program, a unique initiative that enables operators to manage the cost of annual maintenance and service on their G150. By establishing a set, annual cost for maintaining all service and spares product support, BudgetPlus takes the guesswork out of maintenance. It covers the cost of all parts and consumables for scheduled and unscheduled maintenance, as well as the cost of consumables not covered under the original aircraft warranty. Evidently, the overall value of the G150 goes well beyond just the purchase price. The aircraft’s owners experience the personal Gulfstream touch for as long as they own the jet. SP Issue 7 • 2009

SP’S AVIATION

29

BUSINESS AVIATION ENVIRONMENT IN FIGURES

Continued from page 26

ated international airports and the government is reportedly working on a development fee for 35 state-owned and operated airports, that are being modernised. Increasing charges acts as a definite disincentive.

According to Amit Sinha, CEO GMR Aviation Private Limited, “One of the major concerns of non-scheduled pilots is the absence of ground handling services in the majority of airports. In the big or international airports the charges for ground handling services to corporate or chartered flights are very high. The government is not encouraging small handlers to set up service at small airports.” Lack of hangar space is also a major impediment as business aviation expands. Airports in the metros have already reached saturation point. Recently, at Mumbai international airport, it was reported that some corporate houses were asked to find new homes for their jets.

Apparently, the airport management does not want to extend their lease because it can get more money from developing the space. But where else can the jets be located?

Parking hassles aside, private operators find it difficult to obtain flying and landing permits. Harwood says, “Today, a corporate executive from abroad needs nearly 10 days to get clearance to land at the airport at Delhi and a further one month if he has to visit the Taj Mahal. Which MD or CEO can stay in India for so long? Even for domestic corporate travel the clearances take about three days.” In this day and age when practically everything can be done online can’t such routine procedures be speeded up? “The majority of airports insist that flight plans should be submitted by the pilot personally,” adds Sinha.

This year has seen a major layoff in the aviation sector.

Does this signify a surplus of manpower? “No,” says Karan Singh, “there is a huge shortage of skilled manpower. We have a surplus of people who are not needed—they lack the required number of flying hours, have come with licences from foreign countries and do not fit the bill. Those who perfectly suit the requirement are always in demand.” It is a fact of life that the needs of scheduled airlines are met first; business aviation has to fight over the ‘leftovers’.

When it comes to maintenance facilities, business aviation is just as badly off and corporate aircraft continue to ferry to MROs abroad. Government policies, seemingly frozen in time, as well as high tax liabilities, especially import duties on aircraft spares, discourage the MRO business. The root of many problems appears to be a bureaucratic mindset preoccupied with scheduled services even as it views big business with suspicion. “According recognition to business aviation as an industry in itself is the priority,” says Karan Singh. The government and aviation regulators need to accept that business aviation is a different animal. As yet there aren’t even guidelines specific to general aviation.

Still, Indian businesses seem to know how to survive the babus. Harwood says, “Indian companies are happier in business aviation in India. The foreign companies get frustrated with the bureaucratic hurdles. Believe me, there are much less hurdles in the western world.”

THE FUTURE BECKONS

When general aviation flourishes in a country — as it does in the US—business aviation can really come into its own.

In this respect, India could easily assume a leadership role 30

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Issue 7 • 2009

There are a total of 502 aircraft registered here in India under NSOP (Non Schedule Operator Permit) and Pvt Category. Apart from this, there are 78 aircraft of different state governments.

Till 2004, the number of aircraft was 228; by May 2009, the figure had soared to 502—registering a 120 per cent growth in just 4.5 years. Out of 502: • 227 are rotary wing (RW) and 275 are fixed wing (FW) • 227 RW is further categorised as 118 multi and 109 single engine • 275 FW is further categorised as 92 piston and 183 turbine engine • 183 Turbine is further categorised as 93 jet and 90 turboprops Till 2004

Till May 2009

Increase

Increase %

RW (Helicopters)

98

227

129

132

Multi RW

46

118

72

157

Single RW

52

109

57

110

FW

130

275

145

112

Jet

14

93

79

564

Turboprop

56

90

34

61

Talking about operators, there are 200 operators in May 2009 as against the 110 in 2004—an increase of more than 80 per cent.

Till 2004

Till May 2009

Increase

Increase %

Total Operator

110

200

90

82

NSOP

40

110

70

175

PVT

70

90

20

29

Courtesy: Business Aviation Association for India

and set the pace for operations, MRO and training facilities for the entire neighbourhood. Poovaiah states, “Business aviation penetration in India is not yet commensurate with its GDP as compared to the rest of the world. India’s geographic spread, current infrastructure and pace of economic growth provide a potent mix that is very conducive for business aviation growth. We have a long way to go to realise the potential.” That potential is enormous if the new government addresses just two aspects: infrastructure and red tape. And when Indian business aviation really takes off, it is highly unlikely that its footprint will be confined to the country. There is simply no competition in the region before West Asia, Singapore and China.

Precisely why, the multifarious problems notwithstanding, Poovaiah feels the outlook is bright: “The future in this space belongs to a select few players that have spotted the long term opportunity and are creating infrastructure, and developing knowledge and experience in anticipation of the impending growth.” As the green shoots of economic recovery take root and strengthen, Indian business aviation’s current travails will also become but a memory. To quote Karan Singh: “As an industry we are bullish about business aviation. It will continue to grow.” SP www.spsaviation.net

MILITARY

INDUSTRY

F/A-18

PHOTOGRAPHS: BOEING/ SP GUIDE PUBNS

Evolution Explained

By Chris Chadwick President, Boeing Military Aircraft

When I look at what the Super Hornet offers warfighters today, I know we are unmatched at what we bring to the fight Issue 7 • 2009

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31

T

MILITARY INDUSTRY

HE F/A-18IN SUPER HORNET is the world’s most advanced in-production multi-role combat fighter currently offered to the Indian Air Force. When I look at what the Super Hornet offers warfighters today, I know we are unmatched at what we bring to the fight. The Super Hornet programme has delivered more than 400 aircraft to the US Navy, each one on time and under budget, through a total system engineering effort, coupled with lean business practices.

Every Super Hornet to date has been delivered on or ahead of schedule (the latest delivery data supports that Boeing is “currently delivering Super Hornets to the USN and our international customers two-plus months ahead of schedule”). Designed in two phases, the F/A-18E/F’s first phase was an airframe and growth focus where we designed in stealth. We focused on what the US Navy refers to as a “balanced approach to survivability”, stealth, advanced electronic warning receivers, combat redundancy for major systems, such as two engines and QUALITY CHECK: CAPABILITY two mission comENHANCEMENTS FOR THE SUPER HORNET CONTINUE TO THIS DAY puters. We also focused on range.

The next destination in Super Hornet evolution came in April 2005—about seven years after the first Super Hornets arrived in 1998—when the Block II Super Hornet emerged. Block II modernised all of the avionics and sensors on the aircraft. Block II enhancements also upgraded the APG-73 radar, known as a mechanically scanning radar, with the APG-79 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar at the heart of the system. Additionally, upgraded sensor capability, including the Advanced Targeting Forward Looking Infrared pod and SHAred Reconnaissance Pod, provide unmatched total battlespace situational awareness.

Capability enhancements for the Super Hornet continue today through the F/A-18E/F Flight Plan. The Flight Plan is a technology insertion roadmap that partners Boeing with the US Navy, and enables us to ensure the Super Hornet remains in front of developing threats over the next three decades.

The navy will operate the Super Hornet through 2035 and beyond, because it is the only platform that offers such unique combat-proven capabilities. We will continue to enhance and upgrade the Super Hornet following the Flight Plan to remain ahead of threats that continue to emerge.

With its 11 weapons stations that enable it to fight its way into target areas, launch weapons, and fight its way out, the Super Hornet is the preeminent multi-role platform in the world today. The Super Hornet’s unlimited angle of attack, coupled with its ability to execute air-to-air, fighter escort, airto-ground/close air support, maritime attack/tactical maritime operations, reconnaissance and even as a tactical air refueler, make it a true force multiplier. The Super Hornet is unmatched in the types of missions it can conduct, today.

If India should choose this iconic aircraft, itself a symbol of continuous aerospace evolution, the Super Hornet might rightfully come to stand as a symbol of growing India-US ties. From way up at the government-to-government level, 32

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Issue 7 • 2009

down to where defence companies like Boeing are linking arms with the MoD and Indian industry, this evolution has been remarkable. And looking ahead, it can only get better.

As continuous insertions of advanced technologies keep the Super Hornet an integral part of the US Navy for 30 or more years, we similarly expect the new F/A-18IN to be defending Indian air space and international sea lanes for years beyond that.

It’s all about evolution—one great aircraft and two great nations.

STATE-OF-THE-ART FEATURES

Complete multi-role capability. Combat proven. Low cost of ownership. The F/A-18IN Super Hornet provides the latest generation of advanced airframe and avionics technology to fight and survive in the 21st century. As its fighter/attack designation signifies, the F/A-18IN Super Hornet provides the flexibility to perform a broad range of missions, from allweather precision attack to reconnaissance to air superiority in a single aircraft. The supportability design features minimise sustainment and life-cycle costs, resulting in high availability rates. Factor in the transfer of state-of-the-art manufacturing technology and its exceptional value becomes apparent.

Unprecedented mission capability maximises strategic options. Lethality, high survivability protect warfighters and investment. Flexible weapons carriage allows multiple missions on a single sortie. Unprecedented mission capability maximises strategic options. Because the Super Hornet was designed as a front-line fighter and attack aircraft from inception, it performs exceptionally well in all multi-role combat missions. With its highly integrated cockpit for maximum pilot situational awareness; advanced weapons and sensors for maximum combat lethality; self protection systems for survivability; and external fuel tanks for longer range, several www.spsaviation.net

MILITARY INDUSTRY

STRAIGHT TALK

Michael E. Rietz International Programme Director, F/A-18

‘Winning solution for India’

T

package efficiency. With its own defence measures, no escort is needed and the aircraft can quickly support the strike force. In addition to tanking, the range of the aircraft can be extended by carrying up to five 480-gallon fuel tanks.

Advanced tactical reconnaissance increases battlespace intelligence. The Super Hornet offers all-weather, day or night tactical reconnaissance capabilities. The suite of medium- and high-altitude sensors collects visible, infrared and synthetic aperture radar imagery and delivers near-real-time, high-resolution imagery to ground stations and other aircraft.

This system, which performs simultaneous air and ground observations, maximises coverage at extended ranges for standoff capability and optimal mission flexibility.

HIGH LETHALITY & SURVIVABILITY

To ensure its survivability against current and future threats, the Super Hornet provides a balanced approach to combat survivability, hence protecting warfighters and investment. Many of the survivability features also make it a very safe aircraft in peacetime. With minimal need for support equipment and a rugged design, the Super Hornet excels at missions in austere and forward-deployed locations. It can operate in all climates and environmental conditions, including frigid cold, desert heat, humid tropical, coastal corrosive and high-altitude runways.

Hard to see: A low radar cross section and a highly effective electronic warfare suite make the Super Hornet extremely difficult to detect by airborne or surface threats.

Hard to hit: The Super Hornet’s electronic warfare suite and outstanding maneuverability make it extremely hard to hit if fired upon. It has no angle-of-attack limitations in any symmetric air-to-air or air-to-ground configuration. This unmatched high angle-of-attack capability, combined with exceptional nose-pointing control power, gives the Super Hornet unprecedented combat maneuverability and the ability to dominate close-in combat engagements.

Hard to kill: The Super Hornet’s twin-engine design, rugged airframe, self-repairing flight controls and redundant systems make it extremely hard to kill if hit, and provides the survivabilIN THE SPOTLIGHT: AT THE PARIS AIR SHOW 2009, BOEING DAILY CONDUCTED ity to bring the crew and aircraft A FLYING DEMONSTRATION OF THE F/A-18F safely home.

SUPER HORNET

he Super Hornet will provide the Indian Air Force (IAF) a tactically superior and combat proven multi-role combat capability. Boeing and its industry partners will provide the timely transfer of advanced manufacturing technologies and internationally recognised programme management practices that will enable the successful licensed manufacture and on-schedule delivery of Super Hornets by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the MMRCA Lead Production Agency, to the IAF. “Boeing and its industry partners commit to a 50 per cent direct offset programme that will provide Indian industry access to a wide variety of advanced aerospace technologies and offer its defence and aerospace industry the opportunity to establish meaningful, long-term business relationships with US industry. The F/A-18IN Super Hornet configuration offered to India is based upon the US Navy’s F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and has been customised to meet the requirements set forth in India’s MMRCA RFP. “We are confident that the Super Hornet is the winning solution for India because of its demonstrated multi-role combat capabilities, its demonstrated operational availability, its demonstrated low cost of ownership, and its commitment to the transfer of advanced military and industrial technologies.

missions can be accomplished on the same sortie.

Large, flexible payload enhances strike package. The Super Hornet’s weapon payload capacity and mission flexibility provide considerable warfighting options. With 11 weapon stations, the Super Hornet is capable of carrying a wide variety of advanced air-to-surface and air-to-air weapons, which maximises the number of targets per sortie and minimises the need for escorts or other supporting aircraft.

Tanking capability extends flight range. Every Super Hornet can also serve as an in-flight tanker to refuel—or be refueled by—any aircraft that uses the probe and drogue refueling method.

In the refueling configuration it retains all the performance capabilities of the strike fighter, thereby optimising strike

Issue 7 • 2009

SP’S AVIATION

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MILITARY INDUSTRY

POSITIONED FOR THE FUTURE, OPERATING TODAY

1992 – 2004

2005

• Long range • Increased survivability/ lethality • Improvedcarrier suitability • Tanker • Long-term growth • Advanced Mission Computer and Displays • Advanced EW suite • Advanced weapons • Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System • Combat deployed

• Advanced pilot vehicle interface • Advanced computing systems • AESA radar • MIDS • ATFLIR • AIM-9X • Network centric

Block II

Block I

2009 • Electronic Attack • State of the art • Full-spectrum • Self-escort capability • Network centric

2014 ...

• Spiral upgrade path to grow apace threat and technology

Block II Plus ...

EA-18G

w ro g o dt e gn i s e ... d

w ro r o m to

now Block II Super Hornet e t a r e p delivers 21st century capability d to o F/A-18E/F designe

WORLD-CLASS INTEGRATED AVIONICS

The Super Hornet features a technologically advanced and highly integrated avionics suite that provides exceptional combat capability and effectiveness. This seamless integration of avionics systems is key to its superior combat performance because it allows the pilot to locate and identify targets more quickly in any weather, designate with higher precision, and attack with greater speed and efficiency.

AESA radar provides a quantum leap in capability. The Super Hornet features the APG-79 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar. It is the most advanced radar available in the world today. AESA can simultaneously guide multiple weapons to multiple air-to-air targets that are widely spaced in azimuth, elevation and range, with unprecedented precision. Its high-resolution, synthetic aperture radar ground-mapping capability enables precision ground-target location and designation in any weather. It also provides the capability to execute simultaneous air-toair and air-to-ground combat operations, as well as independent dual-cockpit operation.

The Advanced Tactical Forward Looking Infrared pod offers target detection and recognition at distances up to five times farther than legacy systems. An advanced cockpit design displays intelligently processed information, not raw data, for greater pilot effectiveness and reduced cockpit workload. The 34

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Issue 7 • 2009

Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System projects critical mission and weapon targeting information onto the pilot’s visor for enhanced combat effectiveness.

Technology roadmap ensures long-term combat viability.

The Super Hornet has a technology insertion roadmap to ensure continued improvement in the Super Hornet’s capability and allows it to remain combat dominant well into the 21st century. The designed-in volume, cooling and electrical power growth capability provide an infrastructure that allows the integration of future technologies without an expensive redesign of the aircraft. Its avionics systems have already been funded, designed, integrated and proven in combat, minimising force structure modernisation risks and future costs.

LOW LIFE-CYCLE COST

The Super Hornet is an extremely reliable and durable strike fighter. Its rugged airframe and ease of maintenance make it ideal for long-life operations with a low cost of ownership.

Design emphasis on supportability increases readiness.

The Super Hornet’s design emphasis on high reliability and ease of maintenance allows it to consistently sustain fully mission-capable rates of 85-90 percent during combat operations. The Super Hornet’s extensive use of advanced materials and its robust structural design results in an airframe that is extremely corrosion resistant and damage tolerant. www.spsaviation.net

MILITARY INDUSTRY

F/A-18E/F & EA-18G FLIGHT PLAN Information Superiority Real-time Information on the Battlefield in and out of the cockpit Collateral Friendly Personnel Damage Ring Safety Ring

No Hit Zone

CapabilitiesBased Roadmap • Image Exploitation • Sensor Upgrades • IRST • Counter EA

Sensor Integration • Sensor Upgrades • AESA HGEA • MSI / Adv Fusion

Airborne Networking / Battle Management • Advanced IFF • Advanced Nav • Data Link Upgrades • EW Battle Mgmt • Crew Station Upgrades • Strike Battle Mgmt

Airborne Electronic Attack (G)

• NGJ Integration • Simultaneous AEA/AESA Ops • Comm & Radar Jamming Upgrades • Geo-location Upgrades

A/A and A/G Weapons Integration • Additional Weapons • Updated Loadouts • UAV Carriage

Developed with Open Architecture Principles: Modular Design, Reusable Application Software and Life Cycle Affordability

Distributed Targeting

Unlike other aircraft that must go through one or more structural refurbishments to achieve their life expectancy, the F/A-18IN has a service life of 8,000+ hours, without the need to send the aircraft back to the depot for costly and lengthy structure refurbishment. This results in reduced lifecycle costs and greater aircraft availability. The Super Hornet utilises extensive built-in test capabilities for self diagnosis. If repairs are needed, the Interactive Electronic Technical Manual provides step-by-step instructions to assist maintenance personnel with repairs. An engine change can be performed in the shadow of the aircraft in less than 30 minutes. This demonstrates the painstaking details that were designed into the aircraft to expedite or minimise maintenance.

Minimal support infrastructure minimises cost. The Super Hornet has been designed to function with minimal support infrastructure. Onboard systems allow the aircraft to operate autonomously with minimal ground support equipment.

Additionally, new software-controlled systems transfer more troubleshooting and rigging capabilities to the cockpit. This virtually eliminates the need for functional-check flights.

Support services fully prepare warfighters for any mission.

To ensure the highest state of readiness, Boeing provides integrated logistics support and a full spectrum of training systems and services. Award-winning training solutions include academics, computer-aided lectures, computer courseware with 3-D graphics and multimedia, tactical simulators, flight training and hands-on training for maintenance personnel.

Customised programmes with smart technologies that simulate the battlespace enable students to train like they fight for maximum effectiveness.

State-of-the-art technology advances manufacturing capability. Boeing and its industry partners welcome indigenous co-production. The Super Hornet’s world-class manufacturing technologies and processes offer state-of-the-art, lean production methods that not only benefit a country’s aerospace industry, but other industries as well. Boeing has successfully implemented industrial participation programmes worth billions of dollars for countries leading the world. Without exception, obligations have been achieved on or ahead of schedule.

STABLE PRODUCTION REDUCES RISK

The F/A-18E/F is a low-risk programme with a second multiyear production contract in place; it will be supported by the US government well beyond 2030. This offers an opportunity for future collaborative upgrades. The single-seat E model and the two-seat F model are currently in service and in production. The newest F/A-18 variant, the EA-18G, is in production.

The Hornet Industry Team (HIT), which builds the Super Hornet, comprises Boeing as the prime contractor, Northrop Grumman, General Electric and Raytheon. HIT employees are located in more than 70 countries, offering valuable partnership potential. The HIT has received a number of awards marking its contribution to aviation, aerospace and defence including the prestigious Collier Award Trophy, awarded by the National Aeronautic Association. The programme received the first US Department of Defense Acquisition Excellence Award, the Aviation Week Program Excellence Award, the Aircraft Design Award from the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, and The Order of the Daedalians Weapon System Award, noting its outstanding weapon system. SP Issue 7 • 2009

SP’S AVIATION

35

Take One

MILITARY

SINGLE-ENGINE

Cost benefits, Reliability,Thrust...

Air Marshal (Retd) V.K. Bhatia

PHOTOGRAPHS: SP GUIDE PUBNS

S

ince the advent of the first-heaviits induction a quarter of a century ago, er-than air flying machine by the there has been no known case of engine Wright Brothers, and thereon the failure causing the loss of a Mirage 2000 aircraft’s evolution as a military in the history of the Indian Air Force. fighting platform, the emphasis has been Moreover, modern day engines are beon speed, manoeuvrability and agility. The ing made as bird-proof as possible. On ‘Dog-fighters’ of yore, the bi/tri-planes of the other hand, during war, the close World War I or the monoplanes of World positioning of engines in all modern War II, had one thing in common: engine aircraft designs would make the twinconfiguration. The prefix mono, bi and tri engine safety factor largely irrelevant if denoted single, double or triple wings— subjected to enemy action (say, for inand not the power plants, as these were stance, if the engines’ compartment is invariably singe-engine aircraft. hit by AAM/SAM weapons).

While engines were being continuProponents of the twin-engine On every front, the ously improved upon for greater power theory also press their case by citing SINGLE-ENGINE enabling more speed, faster rate of climb, the need to compensate for the greater FIGHTER has proved service-ceiling, and so on, the single-enall up weight (AUW) of modern fighter itself at par during gine configuration remained a favoured aircraft that have to carry increasingly war-time operations design parameter for the fighter aircraft. high fuel and weapon loads. While this Twin/multi-engine configurations were theory may have carried some weight and peace time essentially reserved for the lumbering till recently, the argument is belied by manoeuvres—thereby bomber and transport aircraft. The postLockheed Martin’s recent production tilting the scales in its World War II jet era heralded a large of the multi-role single engine F-35 favour and questioning number of fighter/interceptor aircraft, Lightning II, Joint Strike Fighter. The the need for modern such as the world renowned F-86 Sabre, single Pratt & Whitney F-135 engine at day fighters to F-100 Super Sabre and F-104 Star Fight25,000 lb st (dry) and 40,000 lb st (with er from the US, and the most numerously reheat) produces as much thrust in come loaded with built fighter, the MiG-21, from erstwhile both regimes as the combined thrust of twin engines USSR. Differing greatly in various attripower plants fitted on the twin-engine butes, these had one thing in common: General Electric F-414 powered US Fa single-engine configuration. English 18 Super Hornets, French Rafale with Electric Lightning was the only fighter developed in the 1950s SNECMA M88 engines or the EADS’ Eurofighter Typhoon fitwith a twin-engine design, but it was not the most successful ted with Eurojet EJ-200s—all state-of-the-art contemporary aircraft of the time. Phantom F-4 was perhaps the first widely aircraft. At 27 tonnes, F-35’s AUW matches or exceeds that of acknowledged twin-engine design at a time when multi-role the fighters described above. capability became a desirable attribute in a fighter aircraft.

Undeniably, the single most important factor in favour of Admittedly, multi-role capability has acquired pre-emi- the single-engine theory is related to cost benefits, which acnence as a design feature. However, does it require all modern crue not only at the time of initial acquisition but run right day fighters to be loaded with twin engines? Not necessarily. through the product’s overall life-cycle costs. That, and the Different nuances in operational capabilities dictate that any comparative ease of maintenance, is cause enough to tilt the world-class air force would equip itself with a judicious mix of scales in favour of single-engine fighters. SP both single and twin-engine fighter aircraft to cater to all types of operational challenges. That said, the single-engine variety The author has the distinction of having accumulated enjoys a distinct edge. more than 5,000 hours on all types of aircraft, but mostSafety and survivability of twin-engine aircraft both dur- ly on single-engine fighters in the IAF. He was conferred ing peace (bird strikes and technical failures) and war (enemy gallantry awards in both 1965 and 1971 wars against action) have been quoted as the most important driving fac- Pakistan flying the Mystere and Su-7, respectively. Later, tors for such a configuration. First, looking at peacetime sce- he commanded a squadron equipped with single-engine narios, advocates of twin-engine fighters themselves agree MiG-23 BN strike aircraft. The author also has the rare on the utmost degree of reliability of modern day jet engines. distinction of being the AOC-in-C of three major operaTake the case of the single-engine Mirage 2000 aircraft. Since tional commands of the IAF. 36

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www.spsaviation.net

TakeTwo

MILITARY

TWIN-ENGINE

...but what about Stealth & Survivability?

Air Marshal (Retd) A.K. Trikha

PHOTOGRAPHS: SP GUIDE PUBNS

U

narguably, jet engines have nev100,000 flight hours. Therefore, both er been safer or more reliable propositions—of near perfect reliability than they are today. It could also of modern jet engines as well as survivbe asserted that the assurance ability rates of single and twin engine level is of such high order, it matters little fighters being comparable—are myths. whether a fighter has a single engine or What is true during peace time is two so long as the machine can deliver the even more so during hostilities. In any desired performance and fulfil other degiven battlefield conflict, chances of two fined criteria. While this line of argument engines getting knocked out simultaneis irrefutable, it is imperfect. Here’s why. ously may not exactly be half that of one During peace time, birds have deengine, but would certainly be much stroyed so many single engine fighters lower. Left with one of the two engines, and killed pilots in vulnerable states of the aircraft may not be any good for the flight that the threat cannot be overstatmission, but its chances of at least limpIf hit, chances of both ed. Admittedly, a bird hit has the potening back to home base remain excellent. engines in a TWINtial of destroying a twin engine fighter With a single engine machine, the outENGINE FIGHTER also. The difference, however, is that givcome is not likely to be so favourable. getting knocked out en good training and sufficient emphasis Further, evolution of fusion syson practice of emergency drills, with a tems to integrate data from a variety of simultaneously may twin machine there is a fair chance that surveillance platforms and data links not exactly be half both the pilot and the machine would to integrate all weapon systems into that of one engine, be saved. On the other hand, if the only a networked array to defeat multiple but would certainly engine quits, the aircraft is almost certhreats have given birth to the concept be much lower. Plus, tainly lost and the pilot killed. In mariof ‘air dominance’. Persistence being stealth and multi-role time strike role, Indian Air Force fightkey criterion for an ‘air dominance capability demand ers’ area of operation extends deep into fighter’, an air defence interceptor is, the sea. They also operate regularly over therefore, typically required to carry space to store vast inhospitable deserts in the Western more fuel and weapons. The larger weapons internally.

Sector, Himalayan Mountains and thick airframe required to fulfill these reprimary forests. Loss of engine on a jet quirements automatically puts it in that’s equipped with just one would cera higher weight class. The platform’s tainly translate to loss of an expensive aircraft. Worse, if large surface area also affords room for a large number of search and rescue operations fail to perform optimally due air-to-surface weapons—thus creating a truly capable multito bad weather, forest canopy, loss of communication or any role aircraft. To extract optimum performance out of such other reason, an indispensable pilot may also be lost. Single an aircraft, a twin-engine configuration with adequate thrust engine reliability cannot be a sufficient argument against becomes necessary. such an eventuality.

Future points to pre-eminence of stealth in aircraft deA relevant case in point is the US Air Force experience. sign, necessitating internal carriage of weapons. That said, In FY2007, of the 13 F-16 Class A mishaps (meaning loss of two smaller engines buried in the fuselage of a stealthy airaircraft or damage of more than $1 million; Rs 4.8 crore), as craft is a much more likely configuration—than a single enmany as six occurred due to engine problems. In 2001, F-16 gine which is unlikely to fit the bill in terms of available space suffered Class A accident rate of 3.85 per 100,000 hours be- and required performance. SP cause of a rash of engine failures. A January-February 2008 report in Flying Safety journal also states that in most years, With 4,200 accumulated flying hours, mostly on assortengine failures on F-16 cause more accidents than any other ed types of fighters, the author’s illustrious career in single factor. Another Congressional Research Service report the IAF comprised extensive tenure in the Jaguar strike to Congress submitted on April 13, 2006, reveals that between aircraft bases as Chief Operations Officer, in-charge flyFY 1990 and FY 2004, the single-engine F-16 suffered 80 ing and overall base commander, which afforded him Class A engine-related mishaps for a rate of 1.31 per 100,000 great insight into twin-engine aircraft operations. He flight hours. During the same period, the twin-engine F-15 suf- superannuated from the IAF in the post of AOC-in-C, fered 21 engine related Class A mishaps for a rate of .64 per Southern Air Command.

Issue 7 • 2009

SP’S AVIATION

37

MILITARY

NEIGHBOUR

FIERY

,

SOMNOLENT There is an urgent need to address the

GROWING ASYMMETRY

between the military capabilities of

PHOTOGRAPHS: WWW.AEROFLIGHT.CO.UK, WWW.TTVNOL.COM, WWW.DEFENSELINK.MIL AND WWW.WORDPRESS.COM

INDIA AND CHINA

A

recent statement by the rection and action required with

By Air Marshal (Retd) outgoing Chief of the Air regard to national security. The Narayan Menon, Bangalore Staff about China being observation that India always arthe major military threat rives at the best solution to any to India attracted some problem, but only after having media attention here but tried every other method, is only drew little response from the Chinese. too true about our engagement This was in contrast to an earlier episode where a similar as- with national security. Less than three decades ago, India had sertion by an incumbent Defence Minister elicited a sharp re- a navy and air force stronger than China’s. India’s army, too, joinder from China. Two meanings could be derived from this. was better trained, albeit much smaller in sheer numbers. The One, that the Chinese are sensitive to declarations by a min- fiasco of 1962 was a result of poor strategic and tactical planister of the party in power, or two, that given the huge asym- ning, mismanagement of military resources and the blunder of metry between the military capabilities of the two countries not employing the Indian Air Force (IAF). But, since then, the tilting in their favour, Beijing can afford to ignore such state- balance of power has shifted dramatically in China’s favour. ments. Whatever be the truth, the growing imbalance in the military power of the two counties should be cause for concern POWER AT PLAY to policy-makers and strategists in India.

China has a time-bound modernisation plan for its military.

Many would attribute this widening capability gap to the The plan was operationalised in the early 1990s when Beijing stark difference in the type and form of governance that decid- observed the superiority demonstrated by western coalition ed procurements in the two countries—China with its doctrinal forces. In comparison, the Chinese military appeared overcommunist regime and India with its chaotic democracy—but sized and obsolescent with antiquated equipment and poor that would be a simplistic conclusion. A more detailed analysis levels of training. Fortunately for China, this period coincided would reveal that the Chinese have been focussed in their ap- with its own economic boom and the collapse of the Soviet proach to national security, whereas India has blundered on Union. China had the money to buy and Russia was willing to without any semblance of long-term vision. It is only recently sell high-end equipment and weapons for much needed cash. that the country appears to have got some sort of grip on the di- Additionally, many scientists, experts and highly qualified tech38

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MILITARY NEIGHBOUR nical personnel, rendered jobless in the first nuclear missile two years later. collapsing economies of the CommonSince then China has made steady wealth of Independent States (CIS) were progress in this field and by 1986 had a available for hire to give a thrust to the credible minimum deterrent force with flagging military-industrial complex in land, sea and air elements. Today, China China. The modernisation plan envishas a large arsenal of nuclear weapons aged that a solid foundation would be capable of hitting targets over most of laid by 2010, major progress would be the world. Systems being developed and achieved by 2020 and by 2050, China operationalised like the DF-31, DF-31A would accomplish its strategic goal of and the JL-2 will give China a more building an ‘informatised’ (net-centric survivable nuclear force. China has conwarfare enabled) armed forces capable structed a huge underground nuclear of winning wars. Perhaps the unstated submarine base at Hainan reportedly objective of the plan was to expand Chicapable of holding 20 submarines in na’s ‘comprehensive national power’ shelters dug into the hillside. China has beyond the existing regional status. also helped Pakistan develop the AraConsequently, China invested heavbian Sea port of Gwadar, with the inily in the People’s Liberation Army tention of using it for logistic support to (PLA), which comprises the PLA Ground Chinese ships. This effectively increases Forces, the PLA Navy (PLAN), the PLA the footprint of PLAN greatly, while also Air Force (PLAAF), the Second Artillery affording protection to the sea lines of Corps (for strategic and nuclear weapcommunication (SLOC). ons and other missiles) and the PLA The PLAN has approximately Reserve Force. Currently, the PLA has 250,000 personnel to support 77 main 2.20 million personnel on active duty warships, 88 amphibious warships, 65 with another 800,000 in reserve. Adsubmarines and more than 500 other ditionally, there are approximately four vessels comprising coastal warships, million personnel in the paramilitary anti-mine ships, landing crafts and supunits, bringing the overall strength to port ships. The PLAN is transforming itmore than seven million. In compariself into a blue water navy with extendson, India has 1.3 million on active duty ed reach. Anti-access and area denial in its armed forces with 1.1 million in will be key objectives of the force. China reserve and an additional 1.3 million is building its own aircraft carriers and in the paramilitary units, bringing the is in the process of replacing many old total to 3.7 million. or obsolescent vessels with modern deFurther, in China, military service is stroyers with latest AD weapons and NEIGHBOUR’S PRIDE: (TOP DOWN) XIAN JH-7, SU-30MKK, J-11 AND J-10 compulsory for all men above 18 years anti-ship missiles, nuclear-powered OF THE PLAAF with women permitted in medical, vetsubmarines with SLBMs, conventional erinary and technical services. Rapid attack submarines and large ships for economic progress has also permitted troop transportation. The PLAN will beChina to exponentially increase its milicome a crucial instrument of coercion tary budget. Its annual military budget or defence in the South China Sea which for 2006 was $35 billion (Rs 1,68,560 crore) which increased has the Spratley Islands and the Paracel Islands, the ownership to $60 billion (Rs 2,88,905 crore) by 2008. These are figures of both being disputed. The Spratley group of islands is claimed admitted by the Chinese. Foreign analysts are of the opinion by China, Brunei, Malaysia, The Philippines, Taiwan and Vietthat much of the military expenditure remains hidden. Accord- nam. The Paracel Islands has claimers in China, Taiwan and ing to them, China’s defence budget is anywhere between $100 Vietnam. Both the island groups are energy rich. Additionally, billion (Rs 4,81,656 crore) to $140 billion (Rs 6,74,320 crore). most of the crude oil requirements of Japan, South Korea and Large investments are being made in high-end asymmetric Taiwan are carried through the SLOC of South China Sea. military capabilities that include electronic and cyber warfare, For precisely this reason, among others, modernisation counter-space operations, Inter-Continental Ballistic Missiles, plans for the PLAAF are geared to transform it into a modern Intermediate-Range Ballistic Missiles and cruise missiles, ad- air force capable of long range precision strike and strategic vanced integrated air defence (AD) systems, torpedoes, ad- reach. From humble beginnings, the PLAAF slowly developed vanced submarines capable of carrying Submarine-Launched with Soviet assistance, that included helping China build its Ballistic Missiles (SLBMs) and unmanned aerial vehicles. The own versions of Soviet aircraft, like the J-2 (MiG-15), J-4 (MiGemphasis has shifted from PLA Ground Forces to PLAN and 17) and J-6 (MiG-19). Rupture of relations with the Soviet Union the PLAAF in keeping with China’s quest for power projection in 1960 resulted in the collapse of the Chinese aircraft industry and joint operations. with degrading effect on the PLAAF. The decline continued till about 1965, a fact Indian intelligence failed to convey to the DOMINANCE ON LAND, AT SEA, IN AIR political leaders, resulting in a much stronger IAF not being alChina tested its first atomic bomb in 1964 and launched its lowed to participate in an offensive role during the 1962 war.

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MILITARY NEIGHBOUR COMPARATIVE STRENGTH INDIA

CHINA

Active – 1,281,200 Reserve – 1,155,000

Active – 2,185,000 Reserve – some 800,000 (all services)

1,100,000

1,600,000

MBTs

4,000 (All types)

10,000+ (All types)

AIFVs

2,000

1,000+ (All types)

APCs

1,000

3,500+ (All types)

Artillery

4,000 (All types)

17,000+ (All types)

AD Guns

1,200

7,700+ (All types)

SAM

4,000 (All types)

6,000+ (All types)

UAVs

30 (All types)

Some ASN-104/-105/-206/ W-50

Helicopters

180 (All types)

400+ (All types)

55,000 (including 7,000 Naval Aviation and 1,200 Marines)

255,000 (includes 26,000 Naval Aviation; 10,000 Marines; 40,000 Conscripts and 28,000 for Coastal Defence)

Submarines

16 (All types)

65 (including three SSB)

Aircraft Carrier

One (Viraat)

Under construction

Destroyers

Eight (All types)

28

Frigates

14 (All types)

50 (All types)

Corvettes

24 (All types)

-

Patrol and Coastal Craft

20 (All types)

250 (All types)

Mine Countermeasures

14 (All types)

70 (All types)

Combat Aircraft

15 Sea Harrier

290 (All types)

MR

Approx 30 (All types)

30+ (All types)

Hels (ASW/ASV)

Approx 120 (All types)

350+ (All types)

UAVs

12 All types

Various Types; quantity not known

120,000

330,000

Combat Aircraft

600 (All types)

1,650+ (All types)

AEW

One aircraft (Two under induction)

13 (All types)

Transport Aircraft

184 All types

300+ (All types)

Tankers

Six IL-78

One Regt of 10 HY-6 + IL-78 (Quantity not known)

Helicopters

250 (All types)

6 AS-332 (VIP), 4 Bell 214, 50 Mi-8, 20 Z-9

UAV

Approx 30 (All types)

Chang Hong 1, Firebee, Harpy (Quantity not known)

SAM / AD Guns

Approx 1,000 (All types) / NIL

4,500+ (All types) / 16,000

Strategic Forces

In charge of all nuclear assets - A Tri-Service Command. Three missile Regts with Prithvi SSM, Two missile GPS with Agni -1/-2 SSM Msl 2 Gps with SS-150/SS-250 Prithvi 1 Gp with Agni I 1 Gp with Agni II

Organised as 20 launch Bdes within 6 msl armies; the org varies by Msl type; one testing and one Trg base ICBMs : 1 Bde of 6 DF-31 (CSS-9); 2 Bdes of 20 DF-4 (CSS-3); 4 Bdes of 20 DF 5A (CSS-4) IRBMs : 4 Bdes of 33 DF-21 (CSS-5); 1 Bde of 2 DF-3A (CSS-2) SRBMs : 4 Bdes of 500 DF-11A/M-11A (CSS-7); 2 Bdes of 225 DF-15/M-9 (CSS-6)

DEFENCE Total Armed Forces ARMY Strength Major Equipment

NAVY Strength Major Equipment

NAVAL AVIATION

AIR FORCE Strength Major Equipment

NOTE: Compiled from open sources. Estimations may vary with the actual figures.

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www.spsaviation.net

MILITARY NEIGHBOUR superiority role. The interceptor role will be undertaken by the JF17 which is under full construction in China. The transport force will have IL-76, IL-78 and Y-9 aircraft.

KJ-200 is an AWACS erected on an IL-76 platform and will be in service soon. China has a variety of helicopters and other aircraft for specialist missions and routine tasks. With a fast developing C4ISR and its shift to joint operations, the Chinese military will emerge a formidable force.

INDIA: SERIOUSLY HANDICAPPED

ILLUSTRATION: RATAN SONAL

RECOVERY & ACCELERATION

Recovery began in 1965-end and China delivered J-2s, J-4s and J-6s to Vietnam. In the 1980s PLAAF made efforts to raise the training and education levels of its personnel and improve technical and tactical skills. But PLAAF still needed better avionics, ECM equipment, more accurate and reliable weaponry, better AD weapons and most importantly, modern fighter aircraft. Western powers extended significant help which was withdrawn in 1989 due to the Tiananmen incident. But soon after, in 1991, the Soviet Union collapsed and the environment changed to China’s advantage. A desperately cash-deficient Russia offered to sell modern aircraft, weapons and high-tech equipment to China whose booming economy could provide ready dollars. Many jobless scientists, experts and technicians from the CIS were also available for hire. China was aware its adversary Taiwan had the F-16 and modernisation of the PLAAF became a priority. China acquired Su-27s from Russia and began development of J-10. JF-17 was also being developed in collaboration with Pakistan.

By 2005, PLAAF had acquired 105 Su-30 MKKs, 100 upgraded Su-30 MKK2s and 126 Su-27 SK/UBK. The letter ‘U’ suffixed to an aircraft type denotes a trainer version. Domestic production of J-10 and J-11 air superiority multi-role fighters is in progress with 160 J-10s and 140 J-11s already in service.

A new version of the JH-7/7A entered service in 2004. This is a strike aircraft with a reported maximum armament load of 9,000 kg. Older fighters like the J-7 and J-8 which have been the mainstay for many years will be gradually phased out and replaced by the newer fourth and fifth generation aircraft. The planned induction of Su-33, which is the carrier version of the Su-30, indicates that a carrier group is under formation. PLAAF is also upgrading its heavy lift and strategic reach capability through the induction of 70 IL-76 and unspecified numbers of IL-78 tanker aircraft. China has bought large numbers of hightech air-to-ground and air-to-air armament from Russia.

PLAAF’s aim is to have a predominantly Fourth Generation air force. JH-7/7A will be the backbone of the precision strike force with large numbers of J-10 and J-11 in the air

Architect of China’s rise Deng Xiaoping had laid down: “Observe calmly; secure our position; cope with affairs calmly; hide our capabilities and bide our time; be good at maintaining a low profile; and never claim leadership.” An Indian equivalent could well be: “Do not look around; our position is secure; do not worry about capabilities and time does not matter; shout whenever you can; and always try to be the leader.” In India, the political class and bureaucracy have combined to keep the military at an arm’s length. While the ‘guns vs. butter’ debate is relevant in a growing economy like India and will never cease, inadequate focus on military developments in the neighbourhood cannot be condoned. The IAF is an example of benign indifference. The force is shrinking and serviceability of the combat fleet is low. Radars and AD systems need replacement and additional hardware. The IAF’s armament stock is dwindling and restocking has become an imperative. The AWACS has arrived but after considerable delay. A request made in 2001 for 126 additional fighters to replace aircraft being phased out is still negotiating the convoluted procurement procedure. The military-industrial complex has proved incapable of meeting the requirement for military hardware. The Defence Research and Development Organisation is barking up the wrong tree, sinking resources designing ineffective ABMs instead of refining second strike capability and producing AD systems that are operationally deployable.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited has been producing aircraft under licence for many years but the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft has run into time and cost overruns and the Intermediate Jet Trainer programme continues to flounder.

India has to chart a course for itself based purely on its national interests. The territorial dispute India has with China cannot be wished away. China is a country with an elephantine memory. She is building up military capability with the US as its template. Capability building in the military realm is a slow and deliberate process based on objective threat analyses and therefore, ad-hoc decisions are best avoided. There is an urgent need to address the growing asymmetry between the military capabilities of India and China. The race began a long time ago and India has lagged behind so much that catching up may not be possible. What India can and must do is to accelerate the pace so that the gap does not increase further. The somnolent Indian elephant must wake up soon from its slumber because the Chinese dragon may spew fire any time. SP Issue 7 • 2009

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CIVIL

EMBRAER PERSPECTIVE

In India, success depends on where you

START

Regional Sales Director for Embraer in Delhi Manoj Muttreja does some plainspeak on the other culprit, besides economic downturn, that has spelt trouble for airlines in India—namely, overcapacity—and stresses why small is beautiful, and very profitable

A PHOTOGRAPHS: EMBRAER

FTER YET ANOTHER PERIOD DURING WHICH THE AIRLINE INDUSTRY REPORTED HEAVY losses and carriers continued to trim flight schedules to reflect weak demand, there is still no clear indication that the bottom of the economic downturn has been reached. The first quarter financial performance of India’s two largest airlines reflects the difficult environment shared by airlines around the world. Although much of the blame for the industry’s dire predicament has been placed on the high price of oil in 2008, there is another culprit that is equally sinister: overcapacity.

In the first three months of this year, the big two, Kingfisher and Jet Airways, filled just 66 per cent and 64 per cent of their available domestic seats, respectively. In absolute numbers, that translates to an average of 73 paying passengers per flight. That volume, by itself, wasn’t sufficient to generate positive margins. So how are some carriers responding to the glut of seats? Deferring new aircraft orders or outright canceling future deliveries are two ways of keeping a cap on the seat count. But airlines that can’t make the domestic market work are considering deploying their assets to access foreign markets that offer the promise of less competition and higher fares.

SMALL IS BIG: EMBRAER’S MARKET ANALYSIS SHOWS AMERICAN AND EUROPEAN FLEETS HAVE A LARGER PROPORTION OF SMALL-CAPACITY AIRCRAFT THAN INDIAN CARRIERS

‘START WITH SMALLER AIRPLANES’

“It doesn’t have to be that way” according to Manoj Muttreja, a 20-year industry veteran who has worked at Indian Airlines, Sahara and Kingfisher and is now the Regional Sales Director for Embraer in Delhi. “Our carriers don’t have to look abroad to solve their capacity problems when there is way to address 42

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them here at home. The domestic Indian traveller shouldn’t be forced to pay for today’s financial mess.”

Muttreja’s colleagues in Embraer’s market intelligence www.spsaviation.net

CIVIL EMBRAER PERSPECTIVE group in Singapore analyse economic trends and their impact on air travel in Asia. They believe that demand from today’s thrifty consumers won’t be sufficient to fill all the empty seats and lead the domestic India market back to prosperity any time soon. Muttreja adds, “This is an opportune time to correct the old habit of buying airplanes that are too big. What better time to break with doing business in traditional ways that can leave you vulnerable to factors you can’t control, like the cost of fuel and falling demand?” The question refers to Embraer’s contention that smaller airplanes are needed to supplement the existing fleet serving the domestic network.

Are India’s airlines ready to acquire smaller aircraft? If you listen to Muttreja, they must. “This is the ideal time to make a mid-course correction. Our domestic industry has evolved from the days when air travel was only affordable for a select category of travellers flying to a few key cities by one or two airlines operating big airplanes.”

Demand in metro markets has grown along with the number of carriers, yet Muttreja maintains that regional cities have not seen a corresponding increase in the number of frequencies or competitors. “We simply don’t have a large base of regional or commuter-type aircraft in this country despite our population, secondary market sizes, city pair distances and strong demand. Every airline wants to fly 150-seat jets because that’s what they’ve been conditioned to believe works best.”

Much of Embraer’s 40-year history has been associated with providing small commercial turboprops and regional jets that built the commuter and regional airline industries in the US, Europe, Australia and the South Pacific islands. From the Brazilian manufacturer’s perspective, succeeding in the domestic India market depends on finding the right capacity starting point. “In the new economic reality, we believe it makes sense to start with smaller airplanes” claims Muttreja.

‘DON’T PUT ALL EGGS IN ONE BASKET’

Embraer’s market analysis shows that the American and European fleets have a larger proportion of small-capacity aircraft compared to Indian carriers. While airlines in the US and continental Europe were acquiring new 50-seat regional jets when they were launched in the mid-1990s, India’s domestic airlines did not enjoy the same liberal regulatory or economic environment that allowed them to cash in on the regional jet boom.

The fleet composition figures highlight the stark contrast between Indian carriers and their overseas counterparts (see box.) Large, single-aisle jet aircraft between 121 and 210 seats (roughly equivalent to B737/B757 and A320/A321 capacity) account for two-thirds of India’s commercial airline fleet yet that segment comprises only half of the US and European fleets.

When comparing aircraft with fewer than 121 seats, (typically regional jet and commuter turboprop capacity,) the proportion in those foreign carrier fleets is double that of Indian airlines.

“Of course, it’s always difficult to make direct comparisons,” according to Muttreja, “but the Americans and Europeans invested in small capacity equipment to complement their larger jets and to provide the right size aircraft to balance the supply, demand and frequency variations of each market. They followed a strategy where they didn’t put all their eggs in one basket.”

Embraer analysed industry trends when the American domestic market contracted after 9/11 and found that re-

BY THE NUMBERS Aircraft Type/Capacity (as a per cent of total fleet size) Indian-Registered Commercial Aircraft Type/Seats TP/30-90 RJ/30-90 Small NB/91-120 NB/121-210 WB/ >210

15 5 1 67 13

14 12 9 50 15

6 31 5 49 9

TP=Turboprop RJ=Regional Jet NB=Narrow Body Jet WB=Wide Body Jet Source: BACK Aviation (October 2008)

gional airlines performed the strongest. Mainline carriers used the small capacity aircraft of their regional partners to replace larger jets, maintain frequency and preserve the integrity of their networks. “That capacity safety net isn’t the same here in India” says Muttreja, “but the regulatory environment has finally changed for Category 2 and Category 3 operations and that opens the door for airlines to acquire smaller aircraft.” He adds: “During this financial crisis I think it’s essential that airlines evaluate their fleet composition and consider that maybe it’s time to go down rather than up the capacity spectrum.”

‘E-JETS GENERATING GOOD RETURNS’

Indeed, is the time right? The 50-seat regional jet never achieved the same level of success in India as it did in other countries despite the market density and city pair distances that are compatible with RJ operations. Embraer believes jets with 70 to 110-seats are better suited for the country. The company’s market intelligence division coined the phrase “tap the gap” to represent the opportunity for its family of E-Jets to fill the aircraft capacity segment between RJs and larger single-aisle mainline jets. In regions of the world like India, where there is no large, established fleet of commuter turboprops or small regional jets, the capacity gap does not really exist.

“It’s a shift in the starting point,” says Muttreja. “The days of 20 per cent annual domestic traffic growth are gone.

With Category 1 markets reaching saturation and few carriers making money, where do you fly your 150-seat jets to?”

The manufacturer sees its family of new-generation E-Jets as game-changing airplanes with the 70, 78 and 100-seat versions ideal for domestic deployment. “We believe there is tremendous potential for this size of airplane and that the competitive landscape, secondary market sizes and sector distances here are similar to what we’ve seen in other countries where E-Jets are generating good returns.”

As many as 53 airlines from 32 countries have ordered Embraer E-Jets, including British Airways, Lufthansa, Air France/KLM and Japan Airlines. Muttreja believes the old adage, what goes up must come down, is relevant in terms of aircraft capacity for India. “I’ve learned to appreciate that small is beautiful, and in the case of airplanes, small ones can be very profitable.” SP Issue 7 • 2009

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DIPLOMACY

INDO-FRENCH TIES

Forward

MARCH

At the Bastille Day military parade, Dr Manmohan Singh and Nicolas Sarkozy presented an optimistic picture, indicative of a growing friendship between the two nations, even as Indian troops for the first time promenaded down the Champs Elysees avenue

J PHOTOGRAPHS: WWW. PIB.NIC.IN

ULY 14 SAW A CONTINGENT COMpartnership. Our relations with France PRISING MORE THAN 400 INDIAN encompass a large number of areas and

By Sangeeta Saxena TROOPS drawn from the army, navy have served our national interests well,” and air force march down from the Dr Singh said.

Arc de Triomphe monument during the Bastille Day military parade NUCLEAR DEAL on the Champs Elysees avenue in Paris. InIn recent times, France has been actively dian Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh and French Presi- supporting India in a number of ways. On May 22, France’s dent Nicolas Sarkozy witnessed the event in an atmosphere Deputy Ambassador Jean-Pierre Lacroix told a committee necharged with goodwill and mutual warmth, indicative of a gotiating the reform of the current 15-nation council that his growing friendship between two important nations of the uni- country was supportive of Germany, Japan, India and Brazil as polar world. “India is one of the greatest democracies of the new permanent members on the council. world,” Sarkozy later said, introducing Chief Guest Manmohan Setting a new milestone in the development of the civil nuSingh to the thousands who had congregated at Elysee Palace clear cooperation between France and India, French company for the National Day reception. “India is a major power of the Areva and the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) have en21st century and India’s involvement is essential in all major tered a commercial agreement for the supply of 300 tonnes of global matters.” uranium to India. The uranium will be used in Nuclear Power Flying to Paris in the shadow of curbs imposed by G-8 na- Corporation of India Limited’s (NPCIL) nuclear reactors under tions hindering full nuclear cooperation, the Prime Minister IAEA safeguards. The cooperation to be implemented by Areva had hoped his visit would help India and France “build” its and NPCIL comes within the framework of an agreement bestrategic partnership in atomic energy, defence and other ar- tween France and India on the development of Peaceful Uses eas. “India and France enjoy a close and wide ranging strategic of Nuclear Energy, inked in Paris on September 30, 2008.

IN 20 OR 30 YEARS INDIA WILL BE THE MOST POPULATED COUNTRY IN THE WORLD, IT IS A FRIEND OF FRANCE...

INDIA IS A MAJOR POWER OF THE 21ST CENTURY AND INDIA’S INVOLVEMENT IS ESSENTIAL IN ALL MAJOR GLOBAL MATTERS. — NICOLAS SARKOZY, PRESIDENT, FRANCE 44

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INDIA AND FRANCE ENJOY A CLOSE AND WIDE RANGING STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP. OUR RELATIONS WITH FRANCE ENCOMPASS A LARGE NUMBER OF AREAS, AND HAVE SERVED OUR NATIONAL INTERESTS WELL. —DR MANMOHAN SINGH, PRIME MINISTER, INDIA www.spsaviation.net

DIPLOMACY INDO-FRENCH TIES DEFENCE & SPACE

“India and France enjoy a close and wide ranging strategic partnership. Our relations with France encompass a large number of areas, and have served our national interests well,” Singh said. France is a major source of weapons supply to India and French conglomerates are competing for multi-billion dollar defence deals for the sale of helicopters, fighter-bombers, radars and other advanced systems. These include Dassault Aviation, Snecma, Thales and others.

Meanwhile, India has signed a multi-billion dollar deal with French companies for the purchase of six Scorpene submarines. To be built at the state-owned Mazagon dockyard in Mumbai, with technical assistance and equipment from French companies DCN and Thales, the submarines are scheduled to be delivered between 2012 and 2017. India and France are also working towards closing a deal to upgrade a fleet of 51 Mirage 2000 fighter aircraft at an approximate cost of $1.9 billion (Rs 9,167 crore) owned by the Indian Air Force.

Recently, four agreements were signed for protection of classified defence information, transfer of prisoners, cooperation between India’s Department of Atomic Energy and its French counterpart on developing the Jules Horowitz nuclear reactors, and establishment of the French development agency, Agence Française de Développement. An MoU on the establishment in India of an international laboratory in the field of neurosciences was also inked. For the first time ever, the Indian Navy sent a big fleet of four vessels as far out as the Atlantic Ocean for Varuna, the Indo-French naval exercise

that is carried out every year for the last seven years. This year, apart from aiming at conventional and anti-submarine warfare, these exercises also focused on training for anti-piracy and anti-terrorism operations.

With defence and nuclear collaborations, space ties between India and France could not be far behind. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) plans to launch the Megha Tropiques—a weather satellite co-developed with French space agency Centre National d’Etudes Spatiales. The mission of the satellite is to study tropical weather patterns and contribute to the study of cyclones, monsoons, and other climate and weather related phenomenon.

FRESH IMPETUS

Bilateral cooperation between India and France will receive a boost this December when France unveils a 10-city mega festival, titled “Bonjour India: Celebrating France in India”—a festival of exhibitions, concerts, literature, cinema, debates, conferences, food festivals and economic and scientific exchanges, are planned.

In Paris, the leaders of both countries acknowledged that much more needs to be done to raise the level of bilateral trade. A target to achieve bilateral trade worth €12 billion ($17 billion; Rs 81,565 crore) by 2012 has been set. France, many political pundits point out, is a non-controversial ally compared to the US or Russia in the post-Cold War era. The Prime Minister’s visit has in all likelihood further cemented the 1998 ‘strategic partnership’. SP

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Issue 7 • 2009

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45

C

A

SERIES

OMMERCIAL

VIATION

Coming of Age

Two key questions will define the future shape of commercial aviation. First, what will be the price of oil and how long will it be commercially viable to extract? Second, will green concerns force air travel to be reinvented?

By Group Captain (Retd) Joseph Noronha, Goa

“The modern airplane creates a new geographical dimension. A navigable ocean of air blankets the whole surface of the globe.

There are no distant places any longer: the world is small and the world is one.”

PHOTOGRAPHS: WWW.AIRLINERS.NET, WWW.WIKIMEDIA.ORG AND WWW.AIRBUS.COM

—Wendell Willkie, Republican nominee for the 1940 US Presidential election

F

or a brief period during the 1970s it seemed supersonic airliners might leapfrog all competition and emerge supreme. However, their challenge faded swiftly with manufacturers abandoning the craze for speed to concentrate on improving performance and reliability of airliners. Airlines, too, were content with aircraft limited to high subsonic speeds, perhaps the larger the better.

COMPETITION AT LAST

Hallmarks of commercial aviation as we know it today were put in place in the 1960s and 1970s. The twin-engine B737, Boeing’s ubiquitous narrow-body airliner, entered service in February 1968. To date, over 6,000 B737s have been delivered and 2,000 orders are on hand, making it the most-produced jetliner in history. The four-engine Boeing 747, the first widebody commercial jet, and arguably the world’s most recognisable airliner, first flew commercially in 1970. It was expected to be rendered obsolete by supersonic airliners, but till date, around 1,500 B747s have either been built or are on order.

In December 1970, Airbus Industrie, a consortium of European aerospace companies, was set up and provided direct competition to Boeing for the first time. The Airbus A300 was launched in 1972 as the world’s first twin-engine wide-body 46

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Issue 7 • 2009

airliner. Its famous successor, the Airbus A320, commenced airline operations in 1988, pioneering the use of digital flyby-wire flight control systems. With more than 3,800 aircraft built, the A320 family is second only to the B737. The A340 was launched in June 1987 as a long-range companion to the short-range A320 and the medium-range A300. The contest between Boeing and Airbus seesaws from year to year. Other companies, like Embraer and Bombardier Aerospace, avoid direct competition with the two giants, preferring instead to focus on regional jets.

In 1973, a new US airline changed the face of air freight business. Fred Smith, a young entrepreneur, believed that combining passenger air traffic with freight, as the regular airlines were doing, would not work. Instead, he established a dedicated air freight line called Federal Express, its USP: nextday delivery, a service he guaranteed.

DEREGULATION & LOW-COST

For over half a century, airlines worldwide were heavily regulated and competition was mainly in standards of service, rather than in fares. In many countries, airlines were stateowned and became potent symbols of national pride. Private airlines were often prevented from entering the market. Even though US airlines were privately owned, they conspired to prevent new competition emerging. However, in 1978, the US Congress approved the Airline Deregulation Act, which allowed airlines to choose their own routes and set their own fares. From this point onward, they would live and die by the demands of the marketplace.

Biggest winner was the passenger, since fares dropped by around 20 per cent and many millions who had never flown before now became regular fliers. Americans showed the world how to do without rail and bus travel by using a car for up to a few 100 km and catching a jet for everything else.

Only over the last decade or so have green concerns put such extravagance under a cloud. The US experience showed that profitability in a deregulated market can be shaky. Some of the legacy carriers, like an already weak Pan Am, did not surwww.spsaviation.net

SERIES COMMERCIAL AVIATION vive. Most of the poorly established new entrants fared equally badly. The 1980s also saw the low-cost airline model take hold in America, as carriers led by Southwest set a trend that would later spread to Europe. The 1990s witnessed intense consolidation—code-share agreements led to franchise deals and ultimately created the strategic global alliances that we know today. Since deregulation in 1978, over 200 US airlines have merged, been taken over, or gone out of business.

It was not till the early 1990s that deregulation of the European Union airspace commenced. By 1997, any EU airline was able to fly anywhere within the single market. Non-European players, mainly North American carriers, began to compete in markets previously reserved for national airlines, putting some of the latter in dire financial straits. The shift towards ‘budget’ airlines on shorter routes became significant. Airlines such as EasyJet and Ryanair grew at the expense of the traditional carriers. National airlines such as Aer Lingus (Ireland) and British Airways were themselves privatised.

During the 1990s, ‘open skies’ agreements, which deprive governments PROMINENT PLAYERS: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) EASYJET’S A320; RYANAIR’S B737; THE AIRBUS FAMILY

of many regulatory powers and open up international routes to further competition, also became common.

India had its own experience of deregulation. After the airline industry was nationalised in 1953, Indian Airlines and Air India operated as monopolies, while private carriers were not permitted. The industry did not see much growth and standards of service and efficiency slipped considerably.

However, with the entry of private players in the early 1990s the scene was transformed. Jet Airways, Sahara Airlines and other operators launched a revolution in the sky. But it was Air Deccan that was responsible for a paradigm shift. In 2003-04, it slashed fares dramatically, rivalling upper-class train tariffs on key sectors, and bringing air travel within the reach of everyone. Other airlines followed suit, creating fierce competition for each passenger.

The surging popularity of air travel following deregulation and the launch of low-cost airlines worldwide, rapidly increased the volume of flights and stretched airport capacity to the limits. In the US, for instance, traffic topped 600 million passengers per year in 2001—a four-fold increase over three decades. On September 11, 2001, however, terrorists seized control of four airliners and carried out unprecedented attacks on New York and Washington. The nation’s entire fleet of commercial aircraft was grounded for two days. In the months that followed, passenger travel decreased sharply and took a couple of years to return to pre-September 11 levels.

This illustrated the inherent fragility and vulnerability

“The Boeing 747 is the commuter train of the global village.”

—H. Tennekes, in The Simple Science of Flight, 1996 of the air transport business—terrorist attacks, the SARS outbreak of 2003 and a series of ‘oil shocks’ have left airlines reeling for the last decade. Experience worldwide has shown that it is extraordinarily difficult for most airlines to deliver consistent profits over an extended period. The most recent setback to the industry is the global financial and economic crisis that has resulted in ‘perfect storm’ conditions of high costs and falling demand. After an estimated worldwide loss of $10.4 billion (Rs 50,260 crore) in 2008, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) expects airlines to make a loss of $9 billion (Rs 43,490 crore) in 2009. At present, recovery is still a distant dream and most airlines seem headed the low-cost way in a desperate attempt to stay afloat.

CRYSTAL GAZING

As the first century of commercial aviation approaches its end the industry seems to have come of age. All those associated with air travel can look back with some satisfaction at how much has been achieved. Airliners today, besides being the fastest means of travel, are also among the safest. IATA reported 22 crashes in 2008, and only eight of those involved deaths—an average of one fatal crash per 1.2 million flights. A vital element of future air transport will be a restructuring of air traffic management. While at present a globalised and seamless air traffic system might seem unachievable, it needs to be a target. The ongoing effort to create a ‘Single European Sky’ should represent only the beginning.

Answers to two fundamental questions, however, will probably define the shape that commercial aviation may take over the next half century or so. First, what will be the price of oil and how long will it be commercially viable to extract? Second, will green concerns—intensified by increasing evidence of serious climate change—force air travel to be reinvented?

There is no doubt that airliners need to be more environmentally friendly. The development of engines in the near term will focus on ever lower fuel burn and emissions, although achieving this in parallel with further significant noise reductions will be a challenge. Geared turbofans, advanced turbofans and open rotors may be the key in the shorter term. The diminishing availability of oil will probably spur the development of engines compatible with non-fossil-based fuels—for example engines that burn liquid hydrogen derived from water. In that case, passengers could some day travel in ultra-fast and ultra-green airliners.

At the other extreme, flying itself could be subject to strict rationing because of environmental concerns. However, citizens of the global village would be loath to accept major curbs—and human ingenuity will probably ensure that the swift, safe, comfortable and affordable journeys which airliners have offered for decades do not become a thing of the past. SP (Concluded.)

Issue 7 • 2009

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47

Hall of Fame

A

CENTURY AFTER THE first fixed-wing aircraft crossed the English Channel, it apparently is no big deal. After all, at its narrowest, between Calais and Dover, “the Ditch” is a mere 37 km. Yet, when Louis Blériot successfully completed his flight on July 25, 1909, it was a remarkable feat. Most aircraft of the time could only fly very short distances. Engines were unreliable and prone to overheating and most could run for only about 20 minutes. Pilots prudently avoided long stretches of water so as to be able to head for a field in an emergency. Blériot’s flight was the first across a large body of water in a heavier-than-air craft, and won him a £1,000 prize—a handsome sum in those days.

Louis Blériot was born on July 1, 1872, in a small village near Cambrai, France. After studying engineering in Paris, he invented automobile headlights and established a successful headlamp business.

The money helped finance his growing interest in aircraft. In 1900, he actually built an ornithopter, which was supposed to fly by flapping its wings, much like a bird. However, it failed to take off. As lightweight engines became available, Blériot tried various configurations ranging from box-kite biplanes to a canard (tail-first) monoplane and his aircraft became known for their high quality and performance. Then, in 1907, for the first time, he flew a monoplane he had designed himself—the Blériot VII—traversing a distance of over 500 m. Although the craft itself was not a success, its basic design set the pattern for much of Europe’s monoplane development.

A £1000 prize offered by the London Daily Mail for the first successful flight across the English Channel changed Blériot’s life. It encouraged him to develop the monoplane Blériot XI, which had an ash fuselage with supporting struts and wire ties. The shoulder-mounted wing was also wooden. The tail section consisted of a central rudder and elevators at 48

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Isseu 7 • 2009

each end of fixed horizontal surfaces.

Lateral movement of the aircraft was controlled by wing warping the trailing edges of the wings. The Blériot XI was equipped with a 25-hp engine driving a two-bladed propeller. After setting a European endurance record and winning a cross-country prize,

LOUIS BLÉRIOT (1872 – 1936) Louis Blériot’s epic 37-minute flight covering 36.6 km in 1909 over the English Channel won him worldwide acclaim. It also brought home to Britain’s leaders and military planners the startling realisation that the country was vulnerable to enemy airborne assault.

Blériot felt confident about embarking on his perilous expedition, even though he had a severely scalded foot from a recent accident.

The French government provided a destroyer to support him. Blériot finally got airborne at dawn on July 25, 1909. A favourable light, south-westerly breeze was blowing. However, after take-off, he became lost in the clouds, which completely blocked his view of the surface below. He did not have a compass and could not even see the ship. The weather began to deteriorate

rapidly. Later, he recalled in typical French fashion: “I am alone. I can see nothing at all. For ten minutes, I am lost.” Suddenly he spotted the green hills of Dover and its castle. The wind had blown him west of the field where he had planned to land. He would have to push his engine further. The turbulence became stronger and airspeed lower as his plane fought the wind. However, the rain that might otherwise have been a problem was cooling his engine.

Finally, a most welcome sight—a French flag being waved furiously by his friend. It was the correct spot! Next Blériot had to manoeuvre to avoid buildings near the field. The wind caught his plane and whirled it around two or three times. With his altitude at about 20 m he cut the engine and dropped to the ground. The undercarriage collapsed and the wooden propeller splintered but the crossing was deemed successful.

Blériot’s epic 37-minute flight covering 36.6 km over the English Channel won him worldwide acclaim. It also brought home to Britain’s leaders and military planners the startling realisation that the country was vulnerable to enemy airborne assault. The mighty Royal Navy could no doubt repulse any seaborne invasion, but what about attack from the air?

Soon after Blériot crossed the English Channel, Wilbur Wright, said somewhat disapprovingly: “I know him well and he is just the kind of man to accomplish such an undertaking. He is apparently without fear and what he sets out to do, he generally accomplishes. This recklessness makes him anything but a good aviator, however, for he lacks entirely the element of caution.” Be that as it may, Louis Blériot went on to build military and commercial aircraft and remained active in the aircraft industry for many years. He died on August 2, 1936. That same year, the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale established the “Louis Blériot medal” in his honour. SP —Group Captain (Retd) Joseph Noronha, Goa www.spsaviation.net

Digest

NEWS

MILITARY Asia-Pacific India seeks bids from Eurojet, GE to supply Tejas’ engine

India has sought bids from General Electric Co. and Eurojet Turbo GmbH to supply an engine for Tejas, the country’s first light combat aircraft, after an almost two-decade effort to develop a local version failed to deliver a sufficiently powerful engine. The Aeronautical Development Agency, the jet’s designer, will evaluate the EJ200 engine built by Eurojet, a consortium that includes RollsRoyce Group Plc., and General Electric’s GE 414 for the Mark II version of Tejas. The EJ200 is fitted in the Eurofighter and the GE 414 in Boeing’s F-18 jets. India’s Gas Turbine and Research Establishment (GTRE), an unit of the Defence Research and Development Organisation in Bangalore, has been working on an indigenous engine, named Kaveri, for the Tejas for nearly two decades but it fell short of the thrust required for flying.

GTRE now plans to partner with France’s Snecma SA to develop a high-powered engine and is awaiting approval from the Union government.

The Indian Air Force (IAF), Tejas’ main customer, had resisted the proposal on grounds that it would delay induction of the plane and suggested an alternative engine supplier be tapped.

Full-fledged IAF fighter base likely in Kayathar The IAF is in talks with the Tamil Nadu government for transfer of a World War II airfield at Kayathar, about 60 km from Tirunelveli, for developing it into a full-fledged fighter base in south India.

“While Sulur and Thanjavur are being built up as fighter stations, Kayathar is the next one in our mind,” Air Marshal

S. Radhakrishnan, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Southern Air Command recently said. Significantly, ambitious plans are on the cards for the relatively smaller Thiruvananthapuram-based command which, in its silver jubilee year of establishment, does not have much in terms of assets. That, however, will soon change in view of the evolving geopolitical situation and the increasing strategic pertinence of the peninsula.

“Sulur, to begin with, is going to be the country’s first Tejas LCA (Light Combat Aircraft) base and will be operational by the end of next year or the beginning of 2011. Despite hiccups pertaining to its engine, the aircraft should be a very potent platform,” the Air Marshal said.

IAF gets first batch of indigenous Cheetals

The IAF has received four of the 10 homemade Cheetal helicopters it has ordered, with the remaining six to be delivered in two to three months, said an executive with state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, developer of the helicopter. The Cheetal is an upgraded version of the Cheetah helicopter, which has been replaced with a Turbemaca engine and is lighter. Dependent on its aging fleet of Cheetahs and Chetaks to ferry supplies to higher altitude battlefields, the IAF wants to replace the helicopters, approximately 200, with new acquisitions. Global bids have already been floated for purchasing multi-utility helicopters to replace the Cheetahs and Chetaks.

Sri Lanka Air Force launches commercial flights Sri Lanka’s air force has started domestic commercial flights using aircraft freed from regular transport missions to support government troops

with the end of the war against Tamil Tigers. Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) officials said charter flights are on offer to tourist destinations and other towns in the island using helicopters and light fixed-wing transport aircraft. No decision had yet been taken on scheduled flights. They said services would be provided through the air force’s ‘Helitours’ commercial flight unit from Ratmalana, an airbase south of Colombo, and from Katunayake, the international airport north of the capital. Sri Lanka’s domestic aviation industry is expected to revive with the end of the war after government forces defeated Tamil Tigers in May. IAF to induct 130 Su-30MKIs in five years: Antony The IAF will induct about 130 Sukhoi 30MKI fighter aircraft over the next five years, more than doubling the current size of the fleet of the combat jet, Defence Minister A.K. Antony said in Parliament during the July session. The Sukhoi-30 multi-role combat aircraft will gradually become the mainstay of the IAF’s fighter fleet. The Sukhois are vastly superior to the MiG-21s, which are being phased out. Over the next five years the IAF also expects to begin inducting the first of its Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA), for which six competing aircraft—the F-16 Super Viper, the F-18 Super Hornet, the MiG-35, the JAS 39 Gripen, the Eurofighter Typhoon and the Rafale—are to go into flight evaluation tests from next month. The IAF began inducting the Sukhoi 30 in 1996. There are currently 98 upgraded Sukhoi 30Mki aircraft in the fleet. “The IAF is very happy with these aircraft,” Antony said.

IAF will not decommission MiG-29s

QuickRoundUp AIRBUS • The first Airbus A330 aircraft platform slated for UK’s Future Strategic Tanker Aircraft programme has arrived ahead of schedule to begin its conversion into a Multi-Role Tanker Transport at Airbus Military facilities in Madrid, Spain. The Royal Air Force tanker uses the same basic airframe as Northrop Grumman’s KC-45, which is proposed for the US Air Force’s tanker fleet modernisation.

AUSTRALIA • Greg Combet, Australia’s Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, has congratulated the Defence Materiel Organisation and Boeing following the first flight of Australia’s F/A-18F Super Hornet in the US. The first of 24 F/A-18Fs will arrive at RAAF base Amberley, Australia, in March next year.

BOEING • The Boeing Company has delivered the 400th F/A-18E/F Super Hornet to the US Navy. The original Super Hornet strike fighter achieved initial operational capability with the navy in September 2001. The advanced Super Hornet Block II, equipped with the Raytheon-built APG-79 Active Electronically Scanned Array radar, debuted in 2005 and is in production today.

ELBIT SYSTEMS LTD • Elbit Systems Limited has announced that it has signed an agreement for the acquisition of the assets of BVR Systems (1998) Limited, subject to accounting adjustments. BVR Systems (1998) Limited is a leader in the area of development and production of training, simulation and debriefing systems for air, sea and ground forces.

EUROFIGHTER TYPHOONS • The Eurofighter Typhoons in service with the Air Surveillance Wing of Österreichische Luftstreitkräfte, Austria’s Joint Armed Forces Command have reached the 1,000 flying hours milestone. The Wing has received 12 aircraft to date and delivery of the remaining 3 is planned during the coming months.

GLOBEMASTER III

According to India Defence Online, the Indian Defence

• Twelve nations saw their dreams of strategic airlift come true as the multinational Heavy Airlift Wing

Issue 7 • 2009

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49

Digest

NEWS

APPOINTMENTS

CIVIL AVIATION

MAJOR GENERAL BHARALI NEW CHIEF OF AVIATION CORPS Major General Pranab Kumar Bharali has taken over as head of the Indian Army’s elite Army Aviation Corps. A highly-professional army aviator, Major General Bharali has been flying helicopters for three decades and been the head of the army’s helicopter units in Jammu and Kashmir-based Northern Command.

Asia-Pacific

BHAVE IS FIRST AIRPORT REGULATOR CHIEF Yashwant S. Bhave, a retired IAS officer, has taken over as the first Chairperson of the newly constituted Airports Economic Regulatory Authority, a watchdog that will look at issues such as the tariff for various ground operations and landing fees for airlines In India. The regulator is likely to start work in the next few months.

CHARLES “WILLY” MOORE APPOINTED CHIEF EXECUTIVE-UNITED ARAB EMIRATES FOR LOCKHEED MARTIN GLOBAL, INC. Charles “Willy” Moore has been named Chief Executive-United Arab Emirates for Lockheed Martin Global, Inc., with responsibility for coordinating the corporation’s relationship and ongoing programme execution with the Emirates.

RAYTHEON NAMES KUGLER VICE PRESIDENT OF STRATEGY Raytheon Company has appointed Mitch Kugler Vice President of Strategy. In his new appointment, Kugler will be responsible for working with Raytheon’s businesses to formulate the company’s strategy, enhance its execution, ensure that it is integrated operationally, conduct capability assessments and gap analysis, and lead enterprise campaigns.

DARPA ANNOUNCES NEW DEPUTY DIRECTOR The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency announced Kaigham (Ken) Gabriel, as the Agency’s new Deputy Director, effective July 21. Dr Gabriel was most recently at Akustica, a fabless semiconductor company commercialising micro electro-mechanical systems sensors for consumer electronics products, where he was its Founder, Chairman and Chief Technology Officer.

HAWKER BEECHCRAFT APPOINTS SHAWN VICK EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Hawker Beechcraft Corporation has appointed Shawn Vick Executive Vice President. Vick will be responsible for leading the integration of marketing and sales, as well as further development of the company’s brand strategy and standard product definitions and offerings.

Ministry has clearly reiterated that the 67 MiG-29 aircraft with the IAF will not be decommissioned. The Defence Ministry also stated that the Russians have furnished the reason for the crash of the MiG-29 in India in December 2008. Sources revealed that RAC-MiG of Russia pointed out structural faults in the MiG-29 aircraft and that the corrosion on the Fin Root Ribs caused further malfunction. The IAF has conducted a thorough inspection of its entire fleet after the crash and obtained details of the structural defects experienced 50

SP’S AVIATION

by the Russian Air Force. The IAF has proposed the immediate upgrade of its MiG-29 fighters by Russian Aircraft Corporation MiG at a cost of $963 million (Rs 4,562 crore).

Moreover, India is already committed to the MiG-29K for the aircraft carrier Admiral Gorshkov (renamed INS Vikramaditya by the Indian Navy) and is buying 16 MiG-29Ks which is the naval variant of the MiG -29 aircraft. Russia is already fielding its Mig-35 aircraft for India in the multibillion dollar MMRCA deal, which is structurally identical to the MiG-29.

Issue 7 • 2009

SATS expansion in India delayed again Plans by Singapore Airport Terminal Services (SATS) to expand its passenger and cargo-handling business in India has hit yet another hurdle. SATS was counting on a new policy coming into force that would have stopped private carriers such as Jet Airways and Kingfisher Airlines handling their own baggage and cargo. This would have opened the door to companies like SATS. But the policy, due to come into effect earlier this month, has been delayed a second time.

India’s Civil Aviation Ministry said recently the deadline for carriers to exit this particular market has been extended for another six months, to the end of December. The delay will affect SATS expansion. It provides ground-handling services at airports in Bangalore and Hyderabad in partnership with the National Aviation Company of India Limited, which now owns Air India. Both companies plan to set up a 50:50 joint venture to operate in other airports, starting with Mumbai and Delhi.

INDUSTRY Americas Raytheon to modernise India’s air navigation system The Indian Space Research Organisation has awarded an $82 million (Rs 388 crore) contract to Raytheon Company to modernise the Indian air navigation system. For the GPS-Aided Geosynchronous Augmented Navigation System, Raytheon will build the ground stations and the Indian Space Research Organisation will provide the space segment and additional ground equipment. GAGAN will supply satellite-based navigation for civil aviation over Indian airspace and adjoining areas in South and East Asia. “GAGAN will be the world’s most advanced air navigation system and

QuickRoundUp they’ve built from scratch in less than a year, received the ‘keys’ to its first C-17 Globemaster III on July 14. The consortium includes NATO member nations Bulgaria, Estonia, Hungary, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Romania, Slovenia and the US as well as Partnership for Peace nations Finland and Sweden.

IAE INTERNATIONAL AERO ENGINES • IAE International Aero Engines has celebrated the delivery of the first V2500-powered aircraft entering the Shanghai Airlines fleet. The Airbus A321 was handed over at a ceremony at the Airbus Final Assembly Line in Hamburg, Germany, and represents the first of a 10-aircraft order.

LOCKHEED MARTIN • The Lockheed Martin-led team developing the Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS) has announced that the second Highly Elliptical Orbit (HEO-2) payload and ground system modifications have been accepted for operations by the US Air Force, paving the way for US Strategic Command’s formal certification of the HEO-2 system next month. SBIRS is designed to provide early warning of missile launches and simultaneously support other missions, including missile defence, technical intelligence and battlespace awareness.

NORTHROP GRUMMAN • Northrop Grumman Corporation and the US Air Force have successfully demonstrated that the new radar developed for the B-2 stealth bomber can fulfill the performance requirements for its required missions, both conventional and strategic. Northrop Grumman is the Air Force’s prime contractor for the B-2, the flagship of the nation’s long range strike arsenal and also is the nation’s largest payload carrying, longest range stealth bomber.

RAYTHEON • Raytheon has resumed production of the Excalibur Ia-1 precision guided projectiles after successfully carrying out nine firings from a Paladin gun system. The test validates the increased reliability of the projectile’s new Atlantic Inertial Systems inertial measurement unit (AIS IMU). Using the new IMU, Raytheon achieved a 100 per cent success rate achieving www.spsaviation.net

Digest

NEWS

SHOW CALENDAR 13 August – 15 August LATIN AMERICAN BUSINESS AVIATION ASSOCIATION CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION São Paulo, Brazil URL: www.labace.aero 19 August – 21 August ELECTRONIC WARFARE OPERATIONS & SYSTEMS M Hotel, Singapore URL: www.k2b.com.sg/ ewos2009 24 August – 26 August ELECTRONIC WARFARE THREATS, VULNERABILITIES AND COUNTERMEASURES DESIGN Amara Hotel, Singapore URL: www.k2b.com.sg/ tvcm2009 1 September – 2 September UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS CONFERENCE Caesars Palace Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas, NV, USA. URL: www.ttcus.com 7 September UK DEFENCE CONFERENCE QEII Conference Centre, London , United Kingdom.

URL: www.janes.com/events/ 8 September – 11 September DEFENCE SYSTEMS & EQUIPMENT INTERNATIONAL 2009 ExCel London, UK URL: www.dsei.co.uk 10 September NBAA BUSINESS AVIATION REGIONAL FORUM Ribeiro Corporate Hangar, Henderson Executive Airport, Las Vegas URL: www.nbaa.org 15 September – 16 September SUSTAINABLE AIRPORT ENVIRONMENTS EUROPE 2009 Steigenberger Airport Hotel, Frankfurt, 60549 Frankfurt/ Main, Germany URL: www.saee.internationalairportevents.com 23 September – 26 September AVIATION EXPO 2009 China International Exhibition Center, Beijing, China URL: www.cpexhibition.com/ aviation

further reinforces India’s leadership in the forefront of air navigation,” said Andy Zogg, Raytheon Network Centric Systems Vice President of Command and Control Systems. “GAGAN will greatly improve safety, reduce congestion and enhance communications to meet India’s growing air traffic management needs.”

SPACE Americas Raytheon technology to help pave way for man’s next journey to Moon Sensing technology developed

by Raytheon Company for the US Navy’s miniaturised radio frequency system has begun its one-year mission to determine whether the polar regions of the Moon contain ice. Launched aboard NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter on June 18 and activated on July 8, the system, known as Mini-RF, will take highresolution radar imagery of permanently shaded regions of the moon to attempt to detect ice in areas hidden from other instruments.

Water ice, deposited as a result of asteroid collisions, is hypothesised to exist in permanently shaded regions of impact craters at the lunar poles, protected from dissipation by the sun. However, that theory lacks proof. NASA is interested in determining the extent to which lunar ice exists, if at all, as the agency prepares for future manned exploration and possible habitation on the moon.

Raytheon awarded contract for Space Fence System Design and Prototyping Raytheon Company has been awarded one of the three $30 million (Rs 142 crore) contracts for Phase A system design and prototype of the Space Fence system. Space Fence will provide the US Air Force enhanced space surveillance capability to detect and report space objects.

“Space Fence is the future of space situational awareness,” said Pete Franklin, Vice President for Raytheon

Integrated Defense Systems’ National & Theater Security Programs. “This sensor will have the capability to detect and track very small objects in low Earth orbit.”

The Space Fence programme is a multi-phase acquisition leading to the delivery of up to three globally positioned S-band radars capable of interoperation with the Space Surveillance Network.

The system will ensure there is no gap in capability as the current systems in the network reach the end of their life spans. Delivery of the first radar system is expected in 2015.

Europe

QuickRoundUp increased precision with an average distance of less than 2 metres.

SAUDI MINISTRY OF DEFENCE • The Saudi Ministry of Defence and Aviation has ordered three additional A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport aircraft for the Royal Saudi Air Force, bringing its total order to six aircraft.

Saudi had signed a first contract for three back in 2008. Delivery of the first aircraft is due in 2011. The six aircraft will be configured with hose and drogue under-wing pods and the Airbus Military Air Refuelling Boom System.

SIKORSKY • Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. has announced that the National Police Agency (NPA) in Japan has selected the S-92 helicopter to conduct search and rescue and special mission operations. Sikorsky is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. The NPA has employed Sikorsky helicopters since 1996, and today the agency’s fleet includes two S-76B helicopters.

ESA advances towards manned spaceflight capability with ARV

TELESPAZIO

The European Space Agency (ESA) is advancing towards a manned spaceflight capability. It has signed the study contract with EADS Astrium in Bremen, Germany, for the Advanced Reentry Vehicle (ARV), which received its approval at ESA’s Ministerial Conference in November 2008. ARV would provide ESA with the means of undertaking complete space transportation missions, from launch to landing, using the International Space Station (ISS) as its initial destination.

Launched on an Ariane5, the ARV would have a forward section to return payloads to Earth. This concept could then be used as a basis for developing a crew return vehicle. ARV is based on an evolution of the ESA’s Automated Transfer Vehicle, which has shown its capabilities for logistics supply to the ISS, and on the reentry technologies tested by the Atmospheric Reentry Demonstrator. •

• Telespazio, a company owned by Finmeccanica (67 per cent) and Thales (33 per cent), and Undersecretariat for Defence Industries (SSM-Turkish Defence Ministry), have signed a contract in Ankara worth for the construction of the Göktürk satellite system.

US AIR FORCE • US Air Force officials have recently given Randolph Air Force Base instructors the green light to begin training for the next generation of enlisted sensor operators to support unmanned aircraft systems due to the high demand of unmanned aircraft and operators. Sensor operators control the sensor suite on the MQ-1 Predator and the MQ-9 Reaper, while also communicating with concerned officers.

US DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE • The US Department of Defense has awarded Pratt & Whitney a production contract for F-135 engines to power the F-35 Lightning II. The contract covers production, sustainment, spare parts and engineering support for the third lot of F-135 engines, including 10 conventional take-off and landing and 11 short-takeoff/vertical-landing engines for F-35 aircraft.

Issue 7 • 2009

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51

Word

LAST

STRIKE that OUT

ILLUSTRATION: MAMTA

N

ot all strikes can deliver the desired blow. Yet, the intent to strike almost invariably never fails to draw attention to the extreme circumstances that prompted it. So when July-end the Federation of Indian Airlines (FIA)—comprising Kingfisher, Jet Airways, Indigo, SpiceJet and GoAir—announced its decision to suspend domestic operations on August 18, the unprecedented move shocked the nation, yes, but also drew attention to the desperation stalking the private airlines and the manifestation of their cumulative financial mess. Driving home the point was a veiled threat that if losses continued to mount, it would not be possible to run the airlines unless the government came to their rescue. Evidently, the intention was to press the government to accede to their long standing demand pertaining to tax relief on aviation turbine fuel (ATF) and downward revision of the various charges payable by airlines to the government.

Since their very inception, the nine airlines in the private sector in India have been confronted with an array of hostile factors. One closed down within months of launch and two others, Deccan and Air Sahara, opted to quit while the going was good. The remaining six continued to sink further in the financial quicksand. Today, their collective dues to the Airports Authority of India (AAI) run into hundreds of crores of rupees and those to the oil companies, several times more. In India, airport charges are the highest in the world and ATF is priced at 50 per cent higher than international levels owing to a combination of high central and state taxes as also inefficiency of the oil refining and marketing companies. As fuel constitutes high percentage of operating costs rising in tandem with the international price of oil, the adverse impact of high taxes on ATF on the financial health of airlines should be obvious. Airlines have slipped further into distress as they have lost credibility in the money market as banks and other financiers are in no mood to run the risk of bad investments.

Undoubtedly, the private airlines too are partly to blame for the current quagmire. At hindsight, it is apparent these airlines often adopted business models quite out of sync with ground realities, thus creating an illusionary boom in the airline industry. Instead of a calibrated growth strategy, airlines indulged in unbridled expansion of capacity placing orders for hundreds of aircraft, employed prohibitively expensive expatriate commanders in large numbers, were generally overstaffed, placed undue reliance on foreign expertise in top levels of management and engaged in unhealthy competition. Airlines structured on the low-cost model offered unsustainable fares to enlarge clientele leaving little option for the full service carriers but to drop fares to retain market share. In a relentless pursuit of brandbuilding, some carriers focused more on style than substance with little concern for efficiency and on-time performance. The problem was definitely compounded by inadequate airport infrastructure and archaic air traffic management that served to escalate operating costs. As a result, the cumulative losses amounting to staggering figures have begun to cast ominous 52

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Issue 7 • 2009

shadows on the viability of the industry and the survival of private airlines on the Indian scene.

Grappling with problems with its own ailing enterprise, Air India, the government does not appear to be unduly perturbed by the new crisis.

With the possible solutions lying in the domain of three different ministries of the government that are insulated by impenetrable bureaucratic barriers, the notice period of 17 days is much too short for any meaningful action. The response from the government so far has been a combination of non-committal invitation to dialogue and armtwisting by way of threat of hauling the offending airlines over the coals should they refuse to call off their agitation. Options before the government are severely limited. Bailout for private business that is a casualty of inadequate professional management would not only be unjustifiable, but also set an unhealthy precedent. The private carriers are also disunited. The low-cost carriers who had already restructured to meet new challenges have good chance of survival and hence may not find it expedient to join the movement. Paramount Airways has not been part of the demarche. Indigo and GoAir have opted to withdraw from the strike. Meanwhile, SpiceJet has recorded profit and has also opted out for good reason.

In the final analysis, it appears that bereft of support from the other airlines, in order to survive, Kingfisher and Jet Airways would be left with no option but to join hands and emerge as a new single entity, in all likelihood, structured on the low-cost model. The two may as well strike up a winning formula. SP —Air Marshal (Retd) B.K. Pandey

Bailout for private business that is a casualty of inadequate professional management would not only be unjustifiable, but also set

an unhealthy precedent

www.spsaviation.net

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